Rathian

Rathians are large green wyverns known for their fiery breath, venomous tail spikes, and impressive range and adaptability. They were first introduced in the original Monster Hunter in 2004 and have since appeared in every single Monster Hunter game to date. They are the female counterparts to Rathalos.

**The following information is all non-canonical and presented in the context of *Monster Hunter Verge*.** To learn about this monster's portrayal in the *official canon* please refer to materials published by Capcom or visit the **Monster Hunter Wiki**!

## Ethology

Rath-wyverns fill the role of aerial top order carnivores, though to what extent and where varies by sex. The females of the species, Rathians, are typically heavier and have a somewhat shorter wingspan compared to their male counterparts. They are less adept fliers and so spend most of their time on the ground, gradually developing enlarged leg muscles throughout their life. Fully grown individuals are shockingly good sprinters and can run and leap with great proficiency in spite of their large wings.

For most of the year Rathians are solitary monsters, but during the breeding season large numbers congregate to compete for the affections of Rathalos. The polygamous male will mate with as many Rathians as he can during this time, but will only select one to actively raise young with. The gathered females fight viciously until only one remains- that victor inherits the male's protection and moves in to his territory, sharing his resources and parenting duties. The losers are left to fend themselves and must raise their young alone, often in less ideal environments.

Even without Rathalos by their sides, however, fully grown Rathians are hardly defenseless. Like their male counterparts they have powerful jaws, grasping talons and fiery breath, not to mention an array of venomous barbs along their shoulders, wings, and tails; the latter especially is thought to be a defensive measure against other large, land-bound predators and would-be nest raiders. Rathians are even more aggressive when protecting their young than they are during the breeding season and nesting mothers are to be avoided at all costs.

Preferred prey varies by region, but in general Rathians target large, slow moving herbivores like Aptonoth, Apceros, and Larinoth. They are not well enough suited to aerial hunting to pursue animals that fly or swim and don't normally bother with anything human-sized or smaller; the energetic cost of catching such nimble prey is almost never worth the relatively meager calories they provide. Still, the warm-blooded metabolism of an adult Rathian requires quite a lot of food to sustain and no individual, regardless of health or age, will turn her nose up to a free meal of carrion or vulnerable small animals.

## Range

Historically the Lost Cerrado has been the go-to nesting destination for male-paired Rathians living in the Verge, though more recently the ruins of Gran Veya have also become sought after. Both locations are preferred for their wealth of food and shelter, with the lush cerrado plateaus and old abandoned clocktower making especially fine nests, well protected from the weather and too high up for most meddling predators.

Rathians appear fairly frequently in the Withering Wilds and Primordial Garden as well, though these are lone individuals not paired with Rathalos. They are thought to have a somewhat nastier disposition and are not as successful at raising young. Food and water are much scarcer in the Wilds, and the Garden especially has a plethora of large and sneaky carnivores who can make it very difficult for Rathian chicks to reach adulthood.

## Equipment

**Rathian Armor**

**Rathian Weapons**

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