Male Hatchling
Name: unnamed
Species: Tsaanguir
Birthday: Tuesday, November 3, 2015
Owner: AshallaynTallyn
Element: Neutral 
Newly-hatched tsaanguiri are no larger than ducklings, though they are far more devious. Their natural instinct is to flock with other hatchlings, a useful defense in the deserts and woodlands where they normally live. In the Keep, packs of dozens of small tsaanguiri may be seen wandering the halls, and occasionally interrupt classes when they choose to materialize through the doors or walls. Despite valiant efforts by instructors, no known substance or spell can stop the march of a determined group of fluffy tsaanguiri, though offerings of crickets and other insects may coax them off in another direction. At this size, they are not yet able to catch anything larger than an unfortunate earthworm, so the hatchlings rely on adult tsaanguiri or students to feed them. Even at a young age, the dexterity and balance of these creatures is well-developed, and they can be easily trained to perch on one's shoulder or climb into a pocket. The hatchlings learn quickly, and grow easily bored, so keeping them entertained is a constant task for any magi trying to care for one.
The tsaanguiri are adaptable creatures partial to arid habitats, and can be found in habitats ranging from volcanic deserts to open woodlands. Tsaanguiri belong a very old group of animals whose fossils date back to a time when the continents were fused into a single land mass. They are thought to share a common ancestor with birds and dragons, and tsaanguiri boast many features found in both groups. Their own wings, though vestigial and useless for flight, can be used in intricate courtship displays, where the males raise and lower their flowing frills while waving their wings to impress females. The features for which tsaanguiri are best-known - their sickle-shaped rear claws and their ability to phase through any material - are used for hunting. These intelligent creatures often work in teams to chase larger animals, drawing them into an area with overhanging rocks or trees, which other tsaanguiri will phase through to drop onto the unsuspecting animal. They then dig their claws into the prey and use their weight to pin it down, sometimes with all of the pack members piling on to help. The social structure of the tsaanguiri is not fully understood, but they seem to have good memories and keep in contact with their own pack members as well as other packs through sharp, piercing cries.
Sprite art: Lazuli (hatchling) | Description: PKGriffin