Oyrthirn (oh-we-ear-th-urn*)
*the ‘oh-we-ear’ is said with the ‘oh’ into ‘we’ quickly like combining ‘oh’ and ‘we are’ (’ohweare’), ‘ohweare-thurn’. Sometimes spelled as O’yrthirn.
Large, snake-like creatures that primarily inhabit forested areas on Almicia. There are documented sightings of what may be subspecies in non-forest locations such as underground and near the ocean. However, due to their highly aggressive nature research expeditions into finding these subspecies are rare.
Unlike other animals, Oyrthirn, as far as has been observed, do not have a set size. It has been theorized that they grow to a size that fits the location they inhabit. Areas with smaller trees and flora usually have smaller Oyrthirn, while large forests have much larger ones.
It is also postulated they live for at least 50 years on average.
These monsters are exlusively carnivorous, feeding on anything that comes into view. They have even been known to attack animals much larger than themselves and often win those battles due to their strong bodies.
Young and juveniles are born with teeth more similar to human teeth including molars that eventually fall out with age as the front teeth grow large and sturdy. If a tooth is lost it does not regrow.
They have also been known to exhibit familial behaviors the younger they are. Juvenile and young Oyrthirn will typically stay near each other until they are large enough to fend for themselves safely . Oftentimes, an older Oyrthrin will stay by younger ones to keep them safe until they are old enough. However, many young are often easy prey for larger predators, including other Oyrthirn.
Female Oyrthirn are more aggressive than their male counterparts and are the ones to dictate which males they will mate with. They will lay about 10 - 20 eggs in a clutch as most of the young will not survive until adulthood.
They have earned the nickname ‘Delighted Death’ due to how they almost always appear to be smiling.
There is another Almician animal called the ‘Grinner’ that are also often found in the same forests are Oyrthirn, and has a similar tooth structure. Research is being conducted to see if there is an evolutionary connection between the two.
Teeth are used to make various tools, medicines, and trinkets. It is not uncommon to find market stalls that specifically sell Oyrthrin tooth products. These can get pricey though.
Oyrthirn have never been domesticated. There have been rare cases where they have wandered into a town, village, or city and slithered right through or basked on a roof without attacking.
