Adamosuchidae - The Diamond Crocodiles
Found worldwide, this widespread subfamily take the roles of most packhunters across the world. Ranging from the miniscule Reunion Quatzolitaire to the gargantuan Khannic Ornlu, these diverse and adaptable predators are both intelligent and efficient in their hunting.
Orlus (Ornlu)
The Ornlus are one of the genii of modern Rauisuchids. They are the largest (on average) genus of the 'Diamond Dog' Subfamily, and are the most single widespread genus of Adamosuchids in the world, with species present in Japan, Britain, Greece and even the New World. Like all Adamosuchids, they are warm-blooded and lay eggs, the number depending on the species. In many cases, they are an Apex predator.
Ornlus are exclusively carnivorous and are long distance runners, normally hunting in small packs or pairs. A common strategy is to flank their prey and prevent it running off to the sides. They will happily run prey into the ground, before ripping it to shreds with their teeth. The Persian Ornlu is the fastest whilst the Gothic is the slowest. Most Ornlus are rarely scavengers, and do not eat food older than four days, though the Hunnic and Scandinavian Ornlus are much less fussy, happily driving off Skoffins and Urdakotturs, in the latter's case, or Quartzhounds and Armourbears in the case of the former. Prey differs depending on country and habitat, but mostly it is made up of Trilophosaurs and Ostrich-crocs, but some will attack Rhynchosaurs or smaller Aetosaurs. On occasion, one may be lucky enough to catch a herbivorous Avicephalid.
They are known to be very intelligent animals, with IQs roughly equaling those of dogs, though it should be mentioned that the larger the species, the less intelligent it seems, possibly due to the higher emphasis on brute strength. Nevertheless, there are high hopes of experimentally training some of the smaller Ornlus, and indeed there have been some successes; most major research bases proudly boast a trained Ornlu of some kind.
Khannic Ornlu (Ornlu Cingischam)
Also known as the Mongolian Ornlu, these gigantic predators can easily reach lengths of over 6.5 metres and a shoulder height of 2.6 metres, and the largest ever recorded reached 8.7 metres long and 2.9 metres high, and was more than capable of bringing down a bull Gullinbursti, possibly one of the most dangerous prey items that can be found in Eurasia. Known for their bloodcurdling roar-howls that echo across the Mongolian steppe, they can be found in most of the region formally known as Tartary, and even down into the more temperate regions of China. Unlike most Ornlus, which tend to be fairly monogamous, Khannics have been known to have over forty mates in a lifetime. This may be due to their large roaming areas. Generally the pair mate and stay together until the chicks hatch. Once the chicks are capable of hunting on their own, normally at a month old, the male leaves. They live for a long time, around 60 years, and reach sexual maturity at 15, a remarkably high age for this genus
Teutonic Ornlu (Ornlu Teutonicus)
One of the many species of 'German' Ornlu, these predators are by far the largest, and will happily attack smaller species. Their range, like most of the German Ornlus, is not limited to Germany; it stretches through the Baltic states into western Russia, though they are never found west of the Rhine. Unlike their smaller cousins, their expansion has been thwarted by this river. Normally hitting lengths of around 6 metres and heights of around 2 metres, with the maximum being 7.2 m long and 2.5 tall, these are long enough to tackle most of the medium sized prey. Some have been noticed attacking and killing Lesser Juggernauts, by running underneath them and slashing their bellies with their razor-like teeth, so it bleeds to death, creating a large feast for the pair. Unlike many species of Ornlu, they do not go near water, bizarre for an animal in a region wih few waterbourne predators.
Hunnic Ornlu (Ornlu Hunni)
The second largest 'German' Ornlu, and by far the most wide ranging, Hunnic Ornlus, or Attilas can be found from the steppes of Central Asia into modern Germany, and from the Black Sea to the Baltics. Some can even be found in the region known as Alsace-Lorraine and into France, though they are rarely found in areas with high concentrations of Frankish Ornlu, suggesting that these comparitively diminuitive, yet incredibly vicious cousins of theirs may outcompete them, despite the dimensions of the Hunnic Ornlus (6.9m long, 2.3m high maximum, 5.7m long, 1.9m high average). Oddly, their young mature very rapidly; at around a third of a month in age the chicks are actively hunting small Younginiformes and mammals, though most quasi-birds are too fast, some actively taunting the chicks. They live in four strong packs, normally comprising of two families. This means they have a relatively large pool of prey, and they regularly use this advantage; attacks on Jub-Jubs and Hardhogs are not uncommon despite the rather inherent dangers involved. Like most Ornlus their attackes consist of slashing their prey with their blade-like teeth, causing it to bleed to death, or attacking its hamstrings and jugular.
Aztec Ornlu (Ornlu Azteci)
One of three Ornlus found across the Atlantic, these creatures are known for their savagery in attacking smaller prey. On some occasions, they have been observed to tease the prey, the trios they hunt in circling it, and attacking it in the flanks or rear when it turns its attention to another. It has been noted that this tactic does not work on Mapinguaris. When the prey is wounded, they do not seek to end it quickly, instead they taunt it like a cat with a mouse. Even if the prey is paralysed or bleeding severely due to having their calf muscles cut or the vital veins or arteries slashed wide open, they do not end it quickly. Though they have the potential of growing over six metres, lengths of around four are more usual. They are mostly found in Mexico, though they can also be found in northern Venezuela. They take little care of their chicks, both parents abandoning them as soon as they can hunt; though given the high diversity of small prey and the large amounts of available food and cover in their normal habitats they have a rather low infant mortality rate
Mayan Ornlu (Ornlu Maiensis) (?)
There is some dispute over whether the Mayan Ornlu is a species of its own, or merely a subspecies of the Aztec Ornlu (ironically), though for the moment it is placed in a species of its own. Their range overlaps with the Aztec Ornlu, though they can also be found further south into Colombia and Venezuela. Barely smaller than their cousins, the only major differences, beside their range, are colouring and their use of bacterial infection in their bites. Otherwise they are practically the same; they abandon their children early and show the same viciousness in attacking prey.
Mahoudile (Ornlu Persica)
Also known as the Persian Ornlu, these large creatures have a very large range, spreading from modern Iraq and Iran, into Egypt and Turkey in the west, and even as far as the Indus Valley in the east. Normally with an average of about five metres, but with a maximum length of just under that of the Aztec Ornlu. Their main clame to fame amongst their cousins is their speed; they can easily reach 40 mph in short bursts. Of course, compared to Dragonback Racers, this is nothing, but it is more than enough to chase down most of the Trilophosaurs and Otrich-Crocs that can be found in the area, as well as escape the unwanted attentions of other predators such as Kaas or Makaras. They are partial to Boneym Skarabs.
Gothic Ornlu (Ornlu Gothi)
The third largest species of Germanic Ornlu, and possibly the most common. They are particularly unusual in their pack composition. Unlike most species of Ornlu, which are incredibly hostile to even non-aggressive members of their own species, and for whom an exiled pack member is as good as dead, they happily 'adopt' orphaned or exiled members of other packs, meaning that they have a much lower chance of inbreeding than other species. This is not where this friendliness ends however. It has been documented numerous times that they have pack members that are not even part of the Ornlu group. Several cases have shown them adopting non-Adamosuchids. Some have adopted even non-Raiusuchids. There have been at least three cases of them adopting non-diapsids. One group held a Treasel amongst its members, another has managed to secure some kind of aerial support in a Zwei-Reich Stymph, and one pack has adopted a human, a member of one of the research teams.
Turkish Ornlu (Ornlu Turcia)
Turkish Ornlus are one of the more docile of Ornlus. Found throughout Turkey onto some of the Greek Isles, and even into Northern Egypt, they live in small groups of about three or four individuals, normally related. They are most commonly found on or near the coast, where they patrol the beaches, searching for crabs, washed up fish, sea-reptile eggs, and hunting other beachcombing scavengers. They are irregular sleepers, mostly catching short breaks in between tides. They give the impression to have an inbuilt barometer, and are known for their storm-predicting ability, seemingly fleeing beaches for inland shelter before a storm strikes, and instantly flooding onto the shore after it has passed to reap the rewards. As would be expected for such littoral creatures, they are very capable swimmers.
Saladin Ornlu (Ornlu Arabiensis)
The Sal-ah-al-din, or Arabian Ornlu are found throughout the Arabian Peninsula and south into Egypt. An Ornlu of middling size, these Adamosuchids are known for their sheer ferocity and even a seeming tactical genius. Ruthless in their pursuit, Sal-ah-al-dins have been seen chasing away not only similarly sized Ornlus such as Mahoudiles or Turkish Ornlus, they are also known to send even Sobekosuchids running. It is not unheard of for them to even severely injure creatures as large as a Judgement Ammit. For all their viciousness and intensity however, at play they are surprisingly gentle. Even the large Alpha males of the pack are more than capable of incredibly tender treatment of just hatched chicks.
Chinese Ornlu (Ornlu Orientalis)
The only Ornlu seemingly unfortunate enough to share a region with the undoubtedly supreme Khannic Ornlus, Chinese Ornlus make the best of this dangerous sharing of territory. Another Ornlu known for the size of their packs, which can easily reach numbers of up to fifteen individuals which, bizarrely, are for the most part unrelated, a unique trait amongst the Ornlus, Chinese Ornlus are capable of intimidating their massive Mongolian cousins into at least sharing meals. The numerical superiority of the packs also proves helpful in tackling large prey, such as smaller Aetosaurs and large Trilophosaurs.
Korean Ornlu (Ornlu Corea)
Given the mountainous and forested nature of Korea, it is hardly surprising to learn that the only Ornlu species present in the region are capable climbers. Possessing powerful limbs and long sharp claws, Korean Ornlus are capable of clambering up rocky cliffs and loose scree, and are equally able at pulling themselves up trees to escape predators, find a good nesting place, or catch unsuspecting prey. They have been occasionally known to drop down on possible food from above with a devilish screech. They seem to be separated into to subspecies, if merely differentiated by colour, the mountain dwellers normally being cool browns or light greys in colour, as opposed to the much greener forest dwellers.
Viking Ornlu (Ornlu Vicingi)
Also known as the Scandinavian Ornlu, the Viking Ornlu is by far the most northerly-ranging of all the Ornlus. Found across the entire Scandinavian region, through Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Iceland, even north onto the islands of Svalbard. Sketchy fossil evidence suggests there may once have been members of this species in Greenland and North America, though the reliability of the 'Leif' and 'Erik' fossils, named after the Viking explorers is highly doubtful. Viking Ornlu are pack hunters, and are happy to scavenge in these hard lands. To these ends they use their numbers to drive off other predators such as Skoffins, Urdakotturs, Tundra-gators and other large Scandinavian predators, as well as attack larger prey than similarly sized Adamosuchids could not, such as Selamodirs.
Frankish Ornlu (Ornlu Francii)
Frankish Ornlus, also known as Gevaudans, are the fourth species of ‘German’ Ornlu. Found mostly west of the Rhine, these are the only Ornlus to be found anywhere in France, where the majority of Adamosuchids are Diamond Dogs. By far the smallest of the German Ornlus, what they lack in size, they certainly make up for in other areas. For example, they are certainly the best swimmers of all the Ornlus, easily crossing powerful rivers such as the Seine and the Rhine. They are also known for their incredible bite strength, which is on comparable levels to that of a Khannic Ornlu. This is suspected to help them at catching prey, by disabling it with a powerful crunch of their jaws. They are well renowned amongst researchers for their sheer unpredictability. They can capably be lazing in the sun one moment and chasing down unsuspecting prey the next. Most researchers approach these creatures with great trepidation.
Spanish Ornlu (Ornlu Hispania)
The most westerly species of Ornlu currently known, the Spanish Ornlu is common throughout the maquis of the Iberian Peninsula. Despite the name, they can also be found throughout Portugal. In a rare reversal of situations, it is smaller than a couple of the species of Diamond Dogs, with which it shares its realm, only reaching about 3.2 metres long normally. They are, however, known to be the only crurotarsian to prey upon the infamous Curiosity-killed-the-cat Snakes that frequent the areas. Oddly for an Ornlu, they rely more on quick bursts of speed than chasing down prey, though they are equally capable of long-distance running if necessary.
Byzantine Ornlu (Ornlu Byzantium)
The Byzantine or Greek Ornlu is the only representative of the Raiusuchid family to be found on mainland Greece. With a range reaching throughout Greece and its Isles, north into Macedonia, Yugoslavia and Hungary, and east into western Turkey, these creatures are known for their survivability, capably living both in the cold mountains to the north, and the more arid conditions of Turkey. They are not particularly capable swimmers, so their wide presence suggests this is a relatively old species, most likely crossing to the different regions over land bridges presumably formed during an ice age. Their groups are small, and normally unrelated. Perhaps the most…unique behaviour this species exhibits is seeming homosexuality between both male and female members of the species, though whether this is for pleasure or dominance remains to be decided.
British Ornlu (Ornlu Britanniensis)
The largest species of Ornlu, and indeed the largest species of Raiusuchid to dwell on the island of Great Britain, British Ornlus are mostly found in England and lowland Scotland. They are very manoeuvrable animals, easily capable of maintaining good pace whilst weaving between the thick woodlands that dominate Britain. Living in medium sized groups, they mainly hunt similarly sized Trilophosaurs, and the occasional Rhyncosaur. Even whilst in groups, they are still susceptible to attacks by Barghests, the giant Ctenosauriscids that they share the region with.
Japanese Ornlu (Ornlu Iaponiensis)
Japanese Ornlus are almost entirely indistinguishable from British Ornlus in appearance. In action they couldn’t be more different. Unlike the long-distance chasers they resemble, Japanese Ornlus are one of those that prefer short-distance sprints. Most remarkably, they are the most intelligent of all Ornlus, and the easiest to train. They have been described as ‘being like Labradors’. Of course, this resemblance s purely behavioural. Few Labradors are capable of crushing a man’s head in their jaws or have skin that a dagger cannot penetrate. Nevertheless, they are the ‘mascots’ most frequently used by the Diff. World research teams.
Celtic Ornlu (Ornlu Celtae)
The third smallest species of Ornlu, and the only other species to dwell on the British Isles, Celtic Ornlus are almost entirely non-existent in England, excepting Cornwall, and are mostly found in Wales, Ireland, and Northern Scotland, where their smaller body size grants them the advantage over their larger cousins. Mostly, they eat smaller animals, such as mammals or younginiformes and the occasionally sphenodontid. Their family groups are small, normally comprising of around two to three members. Perhaps their most defining feature is the males’ tendency to develop blotches of spectacular blue on their bodies, uncannily similar to the Woad used by ancient Celtic warriors, lending this particular species their name.
Incan Ornlu (Ornlu Inca)
The smallest species of American Ornlu, this creature also dwells at the highest altitudes. nlike almost every other Ornlu, with the possible exception of the Japanese Ornlu, they are regularly found in mountainous regions, and are relatively common sights in the Andes. They are very widespread, found all the way down the 'spine' of South America, some even being located in Argentina. The major part of their diet is made up of small mammals and the smaller Llamalizards that can be found here, though most of the Rhynchosaurs found here are too heavily built, as these Ornlus . Their body structure is quite lightly built for an Ornlu, though not to the degree of a Dwarf Mallorcan; the extra bulk is useful in maintaining body temperature in these cold climes. When eggs are laid, they normally do this at lower altitudes to help regulate heat in the eggs. Enclosing nests that the young must fight out of are built over them.
Dwarf Mallorcan Ornlu (Ornlu Maiorica Minimus)
Despite being a midget compared to its many close cousins, the Dwarf Mallorcan Ornlu is the largest and most powerful truly terrestrial predator on Majorca, capable of bringing down the large Rhyncosaurs and herbivorous Avicephalids and Mammaliformes of the island. Compared to their worldwide cousins, Ornlus are very lightly built, and are desgined for speed and manouevrability, sacrificing some of the stamina and durability of their relatives. Nevertheless, in amongst the thick forests and open maquis that make up the most part of the Mallorcan landscape, these are incredibly important abilities to have. They have been found on the lower parts of the mountains, but these are normally the realms of the Tramuntanan Dragon, other avicephalids and several little sphenosuchids. Beach-combing is not unnatural either. Normally reaching about 1.2 metres at the shoulder, and about 2.6 metres long, they are typical of Ornlus in their intelligence and hunting-pairs, and have been seen setting up ambushes; one driving smaller Rhyncosaurs back to their burrows whilst the other lies in wait before leaping out and killing it. The only real danger to them, besides angry Mediterranean Scaleswine, are the Insular River Beasts that plague most of the Med.
Orlus (Ornlu)
The Ornlus are one of the genii of modern Rauisuchids. They are the largest (on average) genus of the 'Diamond Dog' Subfamily, and are the most single widespread genus of Adamosuchids in the world, with species present in Japan, Britain, Greece and even the New World. Like all Adamosuchids, they are warm-blooded and lay eggs, the number depending on the species. In many cases, they are an Apex predator.
Ornlus are exclusively carnivorous and are long distance runners, normally hunting in small packs or pairs. A common strategy is to flank their prey and prevent it running off to the sides. They will happily run prey into the ground, before ripping it to shreds with their teeth. The Persian Ornlu is the fastest whilst the Gothic is the slowest. Most Ornlus are rarely scavengers, and do not eat food older than four days, though the Hunnic and Scandinavian Ornlus are much less fussy, happily driving off Skoffins and Urdakotturs, in the latter's case, or Quartzhounds and Armourbears in the case of the former. Prey differs depending on country and habitat, but mostly it is made up of Trilophosaurs and Ostrich-crocs, but some will attack Rhynchosaurs or smaller Aetosaurs. On occasion, one may be lucky enough to catch a herbivorous Avicephalid.
They are known to be very intelligent animals, with IQs roughly equaling those of dogs, though it should be mentioned that the larger the species, the less intelligent it seems, possibly due to the higher emphasis on brute strength. Nevertheless, there are high hopes of experimentally training some of the smaller Ornlus, and indeed there have been some successes; most major research bases proudly boast a trained Ornlu of some kind.
Khannic Ornlu (Ornlu Cingischam)
Also known as the Mongolian Ornlu, these gigantic predators can easily reach lengths of over 6.5 metres and a shoulder height of 2.6 metres, and the largest ever recorded reached 8.7 metres long and 2.9 metres high, and was more than capable of bringing down a bull Gullinbursti, possibly one of the most dangerous prey items that can be found in Eurasia. Known for their bloodcurdling roar-howls that echo across the Mongolian steppe, they can be found in most of the region formally known as Tartary, and even down into the more temperate regions of China. Unlike most Ornlus, which tend to be fairly monogamous, Khannics have been known to have over forty mates in a lifetime. This may be due to their large roaming areas. Generally the pair mate and stay together until the chicks hatch. Once the chicks are capable of hunting on their own, normally at a month old, the male leaves. They live for a long time, around 60 years, and reach sexual maturity at 15, a remarkably high age for this genus
Teutonic Ornlu (Ornlu Teutonicus)
One of the many species of 'German' Ornlu, these predators are by far the largest, and will happily attack smaller species. Their range, like most of the German Ornlus, is not limited to Germany; it stretches through the Baltic states into western Russia, though they are never found west of the Rhine. Unlike their smaller cousins, their expansion has been thwarted by this river. Normally hitting lengths of around 6 metres and heights of around 2 metres, with the maximum being 7.2 m long and 2.5 tall, these are long enough to tackle most of the medium sized prey. Some have been noticed attacking and killing Lesser Juggernauts, by running underneath them and slashing their bellies with their razor-like teeth, so it bleeds to death, creating a large feast for the pair. Unlike many species of Ornlu, they do not go near water, bizarre for an animal in a region wih few waterbourne predators.
Hunnic Ornlu (Ornlu Hunni)
The second largest 'German' Ornlu, and by far the most wide ranging, Hunnic Ornlus, or Attilas can be found from the steppes of Central Asia into modern Germany, and from the Black Sea to the Baltics. Some can even be found in the region known as Alsace-Lorraine and into France, though they are rarely found in areas with high concentrations of Frankish Ornlu, suggesting that these comparitively diminuitive, yet incredibly vicious cousins of theirs may outcompete them, despite the dimensions of the Hunnic Ornlus (6.9m long, 2.3m high maximum, 5.7m long, 1.9m high average). Oddly, their young mature very rapidly; at around a third of a month in age the chicks are actively hunting small Younginiformes and mammals, though most quasi-birds are too fast, some actively taunting the chicks. They live in four strong packs, normally comprising of two families. This means they have a relatively large pool of prey, and they regularly use this advantage; attacks on Jub-Jubs and Hardhogs are not uncommon despite the rather inherent dangers involved. Like most Ornlus their attackes consist of slashing their prey with their blade-like teeth, causing it to bleed to death, or attacking its hamstrings and jugular.
Aztec Ornlu (Ornlu Azteci)
One of three Ornlus found across the Atlantic, these creatures are known for their savagery in attacking smaller prey. On some occasions, they have been observed to tease the prey, the trios they hunt in circling it, and attacking it in the flanks or rear when it turns its attention to another. It has been noted that this tactic does not work on Mapinguaris. When the prey is wounded, they do not seek to end it quickly, instead they taunt it like a cat with a mouse. Even if the prey is paralysed or bleeding severely due to having their calf muscles cut or the vital veins or arteries slashed wide open, they do not end it quickly. Though they have the potential of growing over six metres, lengths of around four are more usual. They are mostly found in Mexico, though they can also be found in northern Venezuela. They take little care of their chicks, both parents abandoning them as soon as they can hunt; though given the high diversity of small prey and the large amounts of available food and cover in their normal habitats they have a rather low infant mortality rate
Mayan Ornlu (Ornlu Maiensis) (?)
There is some dispute over whether the Mayan Ornlu is a species of its own, or merely a subspecies of the Aztec Ornlu (ironically), though for the moment it is placed in a species of its own. Their range overlaps with the Aztec Ornlu, though they can also be found further south into Colombia and Venezuela. Barely smaller than their cousins, the only major differences, beside their range, are colouring and their use of bacterial infection in their bites. Otherwise they are practically the same; they abandon their children early and show the same viciousness in attacking prey.
Mahoudile (Ornlu Persica)
Also known as the Persian Ornlu, these large creatures have a very large range, spreading from modern Iraq and Iran, into Egypt and Turkey in the west, and even as far as the Indus Valley in the east. Normally with an average of about five metres, but with a maximum length of just under that of the Aztec Ornlu. Their main clame to fame amongst their cousins is their speed; they can easily reach 40 mph in short bursts. Of course, compared to Dragonback Racers, this is nothing, but it is more than enough to chase down most of the Trilophosaurs and Otrich-Crocs that can be found in the area, as well as escape the unwanted attentions of other predators such as Kaas or Makaras. They are partial to Boneym Skarabs.
Gothic Ornlu (Ornlu Gothi)
The third largest species of Germanic Ornlu, and possibly the most common. They are particularly unusual in their pack composition. Unlike most species of Ornlu, which are incredibly hostile to even non-aggressive members of their own species, and for whom an exiled pack member is as good as dead, they happily 'adopt' orphaned or exiled members of other packs, meaning that they have a much lower chance of inbreeding than other species. This is not where this friendliness ends however. It has been documented numerous times that they have pack members that are not even part of the Ornlu group. Several cases have shown them adopting non-Adamosuchids. Some have adopted even non-Raiusuchids. There have been at least three cases of them adopting non-diapsids. One group held a Treasel amongst its members, another has managed to secure some kind of aerial support in a Zwei-Reich Stymph, and one pack has adopted a human, a member of one of the research teams.
Turkish Ornlu (Ornlu Turcia)
Turkish Ornlus are one of the more docile of Ornlus. Found throughout Turkey onto some of the Greek Isles, and even into Northern Egypt, they live in small groups of about three or four individuals, normally related. They are most commonly found on or near the coast, where they patrol the beaches, searching for crabs, washed up fish, sea-reptile eggs, and hunting other beachcombing scavengers. They are irregular sleepers, mostly catching short breaks in between tides. They give the impression to have an inbuilt barometer, and are known for their storm-predicting ability, seemingly fleeing beaches for inland shelter before a storm strikes, and instantly flooding onto the shore after it has passed to reap the rewards. As would be expected for such littoral creatures, they are very capable swimmers.
Saladin Ornlu (Ornlu Arabiensis)
The Sal-ah-al-din, or Arabian Ornlu are found throughout the Arabian Peninsula and south into Egypt. An Ornlu of middling size, these Adamosuchids are known for their sheer ferocity and even a seeming tactical genius. Ruthless in their pursuit, Sal-ah-al-dins have been seen chasing away not only similarly sized Ornlus such as Mahoudiles or Turkish Ornlus, they are also known to send even Sobekosuchids running. It is not unheard of for them to even severely injure creatures as large as a Judgement Ammit. For all their viciousness and intensity however, at play they are surprisingly gentle. Even the large Alpha males of the pack are more than capable of incredibly tender treatment of just hatched chicks.
Chinese Ornlu (Ornlu Orientalis)
The only Ornlu seemingly unfortunate enough to share a region with the undoubtedly supreme Khannic Ornlus, Chinese Ornlus make the best of this dangerous sharing of territory. Another Ornlu known for the size of their packs, which can easily reach numbers of up to fifteen individuals which, bizarrely, are for the most part unrelated, a unique trait amongst the Ornlus, Chinese Ornlus are capable of intimidating their massive Mongolian cousins into at least sharing meals. The numerical superiority of the packs also proves helpful in tackling large prey, such as smaller Aetosaurs and large Trilophosaurs.
Korean Ornlu (Ornlu Corea)
Given the mountainous and forested nature of Korea, it is hardly surprising to learn that the only Ornlu species present in the region are capable climbers. Possessing powerful limbs and long sharp claws, Korean Ornlus are capable of clambering up rocky cliffs and loose scree, and are equally able at pulling themselves up trees to escape predators, find a good nesting place, or catch unsuspecting prey. They have been occasionally known to drop down on possible food from above with a devilish screech. They seem to be separated into to subspecies, if merely differentiated by colour, the mountain dwellers normally being cool browns or light greys in colour, as opposed to the much greener forest dwellers.
Viking Ornlu (Ornlu Vicingi)
Also known as the Scandinavian Ornlu, the Viking Ornlu is by far the most northerly-ranging of all the Ornlus. Found across the entire Scandinavian region, through Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Iceland, even north onto the islands of Svalbard. Sketchy fossil evidence suggests there may once have been members of this species in Greenland and North America, though the reliability of the 'Leif' and 'Erik' fossils, named after the Viking explorers is highly doubtful. Viking Ornlu are pack hunters, and are happy to scavenge in these hard lands. To these ends they use their numbers to drive off other predators such as Skoffins, Urdakotturs, Tundra-gators and other large Scandinavian predators, as well as attack larger prey than similarly sized Adamosuchids could not, such as Selamodirs.
Frankish Ornlu (Ornlu Francii)
Frankish Ornlus, also known as Gevaudans, are the fourth species of ‘German’ Ornlu. Found mostly west of the Rhine, these are the only Ornlus to be found anywhere in France, where the majority of Adamosuchids are Diamond Dogs. By far the smallest of the German Ornlus, what they lack in size, they certainly make up for in other areas. For example, they are certainly the best swimmers of all the Ornlus, easily crossing powerful rivers such as the Seine and the Rhine. They are also known for their incredible bite strength, which is on comparable levels to that of a Khannic Ornlu. This is suspected to help them at catching prey, by disabling it with a powerful crunch of their jaws. They are well renowned amongst researchers for their sheer unpredictability. They can capably be lazing in the sun one moment and chasing down unsuspecting prey the next. Most researchers approach these creatures with great trepidation.
Spanish Ornlu (Ornlu Hispania)
The most westerly species of Ornlu currently known, the Spanish Ornlu is common throughout the maquis of the Iberian Peninsula. Despite the name, they can also be found throughout Portugal. In a rare reversal of situations, it is smaller than a couple of the species of Diamond Dogs, with which it shares its realm, only reaching about 3.2 metres long normally. They are, however, known to be the only crurotarsian to prey upon the infamous Curiosity-killed-the-cat Snakes that frequent the areas. Oddly for an Ornlu, they rely more on quick bursts of speed than chasing down prey, though they are equally capable of long-distance running if necessary.
Byzantine Ornlu (Ornlu Byzantium)
The Byzantine or Greek Ornlu is the only representative of the Raiusuchid family to be found on mainland Greece. With a range reaching throughout Greece and its Isles, north into Macedonia, Yugoslavia and Hungary, and east into western Turkey, these creatures are known for their survivability, capably living both in the cold mountains to the north, and the more arid conditions of Turkey. They are not particularly capable swimmers, so their wide presence suggests this is a relatively old species, most likely crossing to the different regions over land bridges presumably formed during an ice age. Their groups are small, and normally unrelated. Perhaps the most…unique behaviour this species exhibits is seeming homosexuality between both male and female members of the species, though whether this is for pleasure or dominance remains to be decided.
British Ornlu (Ornlu Britanniensis)
The largest species of Ornlu, and indeed the largest species of Raiusuchid to dwell on the island of Great Britain, British Ornlus are mostly found in England and lowland Scotland. They are very manoeuvrable animals, easily capable of maintaining good pace whilst weaving between the thick woodlands that dominate Britain. Living in medium sized groups, they mainly hunt similarly sized Trilophosaurs, and the occasional Rhyncosaur. Even whilst in groups, they are still susceptible to attacks by Barghests, the giant Ctenosauriscids that they share the region with.
Japanese Ornlu (Ornlu Iaponiensis)
Japanese Ornlus are almost entirely indistinguishable from British Ornlus in appearance. In action they couldn’t be more different. Unlike the long-distance chasers they resemble, Japanese Ornlus are one of those that prefer short-distance sprints. Most remarkably, they are the most intelligent of all Ornlus, and the easiest to train. They have been described as ‘being like Labradors’. Of course, this resemblance s purely behavioural. Few Labradors are capable of crushing a man’s head in their jaws or have skin that a dagger cannot penetrate. Nevertheless, they are the ‘mascots’ most frequently used by the Diff. World research teams.
Celtic Ornlu (Ornlu Celtae)
The third smallest species of Ornlu, and the only other species to dwell on the British Isles, Celtic Ornlus are almost entirely non-existent in England, excepting Cornwall, and are mostly found in Wales, Ireland, and Northern Scotland, where their smaller body size grants them the advantage over their larger cousins. Mostly, they eat smaller animals, such as mammals or younginiformes and the occasionally sphenodontid. Their family groups are small, normally comprising of around two to three members. Perhaps their most defining feature is the males’ tendency to develop blotches of spectacular blue on their bodies, uncannily similar to the Woad used by ancient Celtic warriors, lending this particular species their name.
Incan Ornlu (Ornlu Inca)
The smallest species of American Ornlu, this creature also dwells at the highest altitudes. nlike almost every other Ornlu, with the possible exception of the Japanese Ornlu, they are regularly found in mountainous regions, and are relatively common sights in the Andes. They are very widespread, found all the way down the 'spine' of South America, some even being located in Argentina. The major part of their diet is made up of small mammals and the smaller Llamalizards that can be found here, though most of the Rhynchosaurs found here are too heavily built, as these Ornlus . Their body structure is quite lightly built for an Ornlu, though not to the degree of a Dwarf Mallorcan; the extra bulk is useful in maintaining body temperature in these cold climes. When eggs are laid, they normally do this at lower altitudes to help regulate heat in the eggs. Enclosing nests that the young must fight out of are built over them.
Dwarf Mallorcan Ornlu (Ornlu Maiorica Minimus)
Despite being a midget compared to its many close cousins, the Dwarf Mallorcan Ornlu is the largest and most powerful truly terrestrial predator on Majorca, capable of bringing down the large Rhyncosaurs and herbivorous Avicephalids and Mammaliformes of the island. Compared to their worldwide cousins, Ornlus are very lightly built, and are desgined for speed and manouevrability, sacrificing some of the stamina and durability of their relatives. Nevertheless, in amongst the thick forests and open maquis that make up the most part of the Mallorcan landscape, these are incredibly important abilities to have. They have been found on the lower parts of the mountains, but these are normally the realms of the Tramuntanan Dragon, other avicephalids and several little sphenosuchids. Beach-combing is not unnatural either. Normally reaching about 1.2 metres at the shoulder, and about 2.6 metres long, they are typical of Ornlus in their intelligence and hunting-pairs, and have been seen setting up ambushes; one driving smaller Rhyncosaurs back to their burrows whilst the other lies in wait before leaping out and killing it. The only real danger to them, besides angry Mediterranean Scaleswine, are the Insular River Beasts that plague most of the Med.
Fig 1.) Khannic Ornlu attacking a bull Gullinbursti
Fig 2.) A pair of Teutonic Ornlus chasing down two Bavarian Paladins
Fig 3.) A Dwarf Mallorcan Ornlu attacking a pair of Mediterranean Scaleswine
Map detailing ranges of Afro-Eurasian Ornlu species. Stripes mean shared range.
Orange = Khannic Ornlu
Indigo = Gothic Ornlu
Brown = Hunnic Ornlu
Black = Dwarf Mallorcan Ornlu
Light Red = Mahoudile
Dark Blue + Turkish Ornlu
Dark Cyan = Sal-ah-al-din
Maroon = Chinese Ornlu
Lime Green = Korean Ornlu
Pink = Viking Ornlu
Dark Brown/Green = Frankish Ornlu
Yellow = Spanish Ornlu
Purple = Byzantine Ornlu
Dark Red = British Ornlu
Light Cyan = Celtic Ornlu
Tan = Japanese Ornlu
Orange = Khannic Ornlu
Indigo = Gothic Ornlu
Brown = Hunnic Ornlu
Black = Dwarf Mallorcan Ornlu
Light Red = Mahoudile
Dark Blue + Turkish Ornlu
Dark Cyan = Sal-ah-al-din
Maroon = Chinese Ornlu
Lime Green = Korean Ornlu
Pink = Viking Ornlu
Dark Brown/Green = Frankish Ornlu
Yellow = Spanish Ornlu
Purple = Byzantine Ornlu
Dark Red = British Ornlu
Light Cyan = Celtic Ornlu
Tan = Japanese Ornlu
Map detailing ranges of American Ornlus. Stripes = Shared Realm
Dark Grey = Aztec Ornlu
Mid Grey = Mayan Ornlu
Light Grey = Incan Ornlu
Dark Grey = Aztec Ornlu
Mid Grey = Mayan Ornlu
Light Grey = Incan Ornlu