Talderan Viper
From Mizahar Lore
Snake
 | |
| Frequency | Rare |
|---|---|
| Threat level | High |
| Major features | Large Size, Brightly colored scales |
| Abilities | Highly Venomous, alarming speed |
| Most common in | Southern Taldera, particularly around The Spires |
The Talderan Viper is a rare type of snake found only in Southern Taldera. It was originally a common brown viper, but the Djed Storm of 512 AV altered many of the species. They are now considered an invasive species and is threatening the survival of the common brown viper.
Physical Characteristics
The Talderan Viper is quite long, ranging from 8-10 feet on average. It has brightly colored scales, very uncommon for snakes in the region. These scales often come in shades of greens, blues, and pinks. Their young are born in shades of browns and blacks, and will slowly convert to the brighter colors each time they shed.
Social Structure
The Talderan Viper usually lives alone during the warm months, but during the mating season young couples may be found together in groups of three or four. In hibernation, many Vipers choose to hibernate together, creating slumbering colonies of up to ten, and in extreme cases, fifteen, that invade the burrows of large mammals. Individuals that hibernate alone or in small groups usually don't survive the drop in temperature.
Miscellaneous
The Talderan Viper is easily provoked, and even more easily spotted for what it is when it lays upon low-hanging branches. The Viper may drop unexpectedly from above, whether on purpose or due to its weight, and will either kill a shocked passerby with its bite or sheer mass. It should be noted that the brave or intelligent gourmet that succeeds in acquiring a Viper by success of strength or payment may be able to make a meal worth the danger of hunting these snakes tenfold.