Sailback Drake

* D. acutus
* D. eberneus

### defining traits

Large wings compared to other Macrodrakes, two large sails on neck and one large one on back

### Subspecies

D. eburneus gracile

‘Sailback Drake’ may refer to either of the two Macrodrake species under the genus Dolichalatus, D. acutus and D. eberneus. D. eberneus is commonly known as the Alpine Sailback, or Spiny Sailback, while D. acutus may be referred to as the common Double-fin, or the Double-finned Drake.

### Habitat & Physiology

Both D. acutus and D. eberneus may be found in different regions of the continent Enedororie, and D. eberneus may be found in the lower regions of Pliikaa. They are slightly different in physique, with D. acutus having a relatively slenderer build with a thicker neck and more backwards-angled neck sails that end completely where the neck meets the spine, and a large sail on the back that does not connect to the first, whereas D. eberneus’s neck sails merge into one at the shoulder joint and each sail has long white hooks running down it. Both species have hollow bones.

### Behaviour

D. acutus and D. eberneus both inhabit different regions and environments in Enedororie. D. acutus prefers sparsely forested woodlands, while D. eberneus may be found in cold, elevated places like mountain peaks. Both species are skilled fliers compared to other Macrodrakes, using their six wings to reach impressive heights. Both species are fiercely protective of their young.

###### Species-Unique Habits

D. eberneus wyrmlings are known to melt snow into slush and play in it.

###### Hunting Methods

D. acutus and D. eberneus live in different environments, but their hunting methods are somewhat similar.

The Sailback Drake's eyesight is incredibly strong, able to spot a Mraal in the grass from miles away.

###### Natural Defenses

Both species share the ability to breathe narrow streams of hot turquoise flames, which they will shoot at attackers, potentially causing irreparable physical damage to an unwary predator. These flames contain large amounts of copper chloride, giving them their vibrant colour. In most cases, Sailbacks will simply flee the scene, being far more adept fliers than most Macrodrakes, unless their eggs or young are threatened.

###### Breeding & Reproduction

Breeding seasons occur once a year in summer for both species. On occasion, crossbreeds will occur. Sailbacks lay between six and nine eggs, which take roughly 2.5 weeks to hatch. The hatchlings grow quickly and begin short flights at around 4-5 weeks old. The parent/s will care for the wyrmlings for up to 6 months, at which point they will be old enough to fend for themselves.

**D. eberneus:** After mating, the male and female will build a nest together, usually at a mountain peak or other elevated area. This nest may be made of packed snow, earth or clay, sticks, branches, leaves, or whatever is available, and are sometimes known to nest in mountain caves. There, the female will lay her eggs. The parents will both care for these (and later, the wyrmlings), taking turns to hunt and protect the nest.

**D. acutus:** After mating, the male and female will go their separate ways. The female will find a dense patch of forest, and create a large, peculiar nest atop them made of large branches. and insulated with softer materials like leaves, dried grass, and flower petals. She will then lay the eggs and wait for them to hatch. Once they do, she will dedicate all her energy into making sure all the wyrmlings survive until they leave the nest, feeding them insects and small mammals once they are old enough.

### Etymology

*Dolichalatus*

* *Dolicho* is a New Latin term that comes from the Ancient Greek term *dolikhós,* meaning 'long.'
* *Alatus* comes from the Latin term *āla,* meaning 'wing.'

*Acutus*

* *Acutus* is a Latin term meaning 'sharp' or 'acute.' This refers to the creature's impeccable aim with its narrow jets of fire, as well as its agility and precise dive-bombing techniques.

*Eberneus*

* *Eberneus* is a Latin term meaning 'ivory,' or 'white as ivory'. It was given this name due to its white, ivory-containing spines.