Shrikethorn

Descended from Ankylosaurs a shrikethorn is a massive herbivorous reptile with large spike lining the body and numerous spikes on the tail, to thwart any predator that it may cross paths with. The tail itself tends to take up half the entire body length giving more range to protect it. While all this may be threatening, they are a largely docile and don't see humans as much a threat. Because of this some cities have employed them as a method of defense should they be attacked. While they may not see humans as a threat much larger animals such as the rattlespine or splitjaw might make a meal out of one. To quote the Definca Animalus, "One should not fear encountering these beasts. While the may look like they'll fight you, a shrikethorn will carry on about its day." Due to the reliable defensive capabilities of the shrikethorn, these animals are a choice selection for city guardsman. Shrikethorns have rarely been documented attacking a human unless it was under certain affliction, As such some humans, elves and other humanoids make them a fan favorite for many services, including farming, security and transport.

The only time the shrikethorn has attacked a human is when it is protecting young. This protective parenthood state can last four weeks. It is during this time both parents will defend nests with at most five vulnerable young. Interestingly, if the shrikethorn encounters a wounded human, or any other injured animal, they have been seen being taken into their nest and nursed until they recovered. Nobody is quite sure why this behavior is displayed but is generally assumed that they recognize that the subject is hurt. Due to the caring nature, they may see the injured as one of their own, further aiding in the usefulness too humans. Sheighorash Wildlife laws dictate "Any intentional harm towards the shrikethorn species is punishable to one year is prison. Should the shrikethorn be fatally wounded or ill, a mercy kill is permitted."

Appearance: Shrikethorns are typically about 40 feet in length and without counting the plates on the sides, about 4 feet wide. The shrikethorn's plates located to the side of the animal measure up to 6 ft. with the middle plate typically being the longest, Some shrikethorns are seen between 2-5 plates though three is the most common. The long tail as mentioned earlier can grow to be the same length as the body, in some cases up to twice as long. Shrikethorn tails are also lined with ten to twelve spikes called thagomizers. Eggs are about 8 inches long with brown splotches throughout the egg. The head of the animal is covered in four bony plates protecting the eyes and jaws. The beak is utilized largely for eating berries and small plant matter such as pinecones or acorns. meats play a small role in diet and seem to get this through insects and birds when at a young age. Afterwards, the diet is nearly entirely vegetarian..