#nothpecker

One of the most common animals found in the Windward Plains are the herbivorous small monsters, Ceratonoths.

These shelled quadrupeds can be spotted in sizeable herds within the Windward Plains, typically around water sources and areas ripe for grazing. Herds are led by a male with multiple females, but it's not uncommon to see different herds mix together to form larger herds with multiple males. So far, no intraspecific competition has been observed between males for mating rights, however it's plausible that some form of competition or selection occur due to the structures of the herds. Combined herds typically form during the Windward Plains' season of plenty where lush grass carpets the land around large water sources making vital resources plentiful.

As mentioned prior, herds are led by a single large male identified by the sexually dimorphic characteristics that include their size, darker color, and the distinctive tall spikes that adorn their backs. Although helpful in defense against predation, the spikes' main use is as lightning rods. Due to the inclement climate of the Eastlands, the Windward plains often experiences intense thunderstorms that are characterized by high winds and deadly lightning strikes, dubbed the Sandtide. To protect the herd, the male stands within the center of the group, allowing lightning to strike it's spikes and grounding the energy, while the females and juveniles lay down, keeping their softer undersides close to the ground.

Juvenile Ceratonoths look almost identical to adult females, however it is assumed that male and female characteristics develop with maturity. Reminiscent of Aptonoth and Apceros, Ceratonoths defend their young fiercely, often forming defensive circles around their young. If this fails to drive off a larger predator, the sheer size of some of these herds acts as safety net for the young, allowing them to flee with the cover of the larger adults. The mating season seems to occur mainly during the season of plenty where higher number of juveniles have been observed.

Alongside the Ceratonoths themselves, a curious companion is often seen riding on the tough shell plates of these animals. These birds are aptly named Nothpeckers, and can be seen keeping the Ceratonoths clean of old shell material and parasitic insects. In return for the maintenance, the Ceratonoth herds provide safety and food for the Nothpeckers.

Both of these species have only been spotted in the Windward plains, however I have heard of some unconfirmed reports of Nothpeckers being spotted in the Scarlet Forest. If this true, then perhaps that's where the Nothpeckers nest for their own breeding season as the only bird I've seen roosting within the Windward Plains is the Amstrigian. These incredible animals are sight to behold to those new to the Eastlands and provide a wonderful microcosm into how life has evolved around this volatile environment.

Will post more soon.