-Vulcan Amphiptere-

AMPHIPTERE - DRACO AMPHIPTERIDAE BIOLOGY • The winged serpent, a common dragon, is a legless serpent with leather wings, ranging from tiny 6" (15cm) garden asps to larger specimens of 6' (183cm). The bat-like wings of the Amphiptere allow the creature to travel a range of large distances, but the Amphiptere does not usually soar like a bird; rather, it covers its ground using short flying and gliding. The Amphiptere's coloration varies greatly from species to species, and it feeds primarily on small creatures such as insects, bats, birds and mice. Coming in hundreds of varieties, in various sizes, colors and shapes, and ranging in habitat all over the world, the winged serpent is one of the most common wild members of the dragon class. The Amphiptere is found in all temperate to tropical countries (except Ireland). Today, amphiptere are commonly kept as pets. Rare and beautiful species of winged serpents with exotic patterns are popular in the black markets of Malaysia and India, and imported to Europe and North America. This illegal trade has introduced Amphipteridae into ecosystems not intended to support them. BEHAVIOR • Amphipteridae spend most of their lives in trees and forests. Nesting in high branches, the Amphiptere glides between trees, catching insects and small rodents. In this respect the Amphiptere is a welcome creature to most farmers. Unfortunately, some Amphiptere will find its way into the nests of other birds, looking for eggs. In the henhouses of domesticated chickens, cross-fertilization often occurs, which can result in the hatching of a half-amphiptere, half-chicken, commonly known as a Cockatrice. The Cockatrice is viewed as a scourge and killed on sight all over the world. Its terrible appearance is responsible for the mythology that its gaze can paralyze its prey to stone, thus erroneously placing it in close relationship to the Basilisk. HISTORY • The Amphiptere has historically been regarded as a creature of mixed fortune, and today it's a greatly misunderstood animal. Since they live on a diet of vermin, the Amphiptere is a welcome addition in cities, and there are many that live in New York City, making nests in the high perches of skyscrapers. The endless supply of rats, mice and pigeons help keep urban areas free of the diseases spread by vermin. FACTS •

• Amphiptere in Flight : The Amphiptere is rarely mistaken for a bird in flight. Its sinuous tail is both an identifying trait and its chief tool in catching prey.
• Amphiptere Habitat : Deep woods and forests are the natural habitat of the Amphiptere, but some may also be found living in urban environments.
• Amphiptere Egg, 4" (10cm) : The Amphiptere makes its nests high in trees, but also has been known to use the nests of other birds.
• The Cockatrice : The cockatrice is a hybrid between the Amphitere and domesticated fowl.
• The Grip of a Snake : The Amphiptere's slender body can be wrapped around tree limbs, allowing it to snatch its unsuspecting prey. SPECIFICATIONS - AMPHIPTERUS VIPERAVULCANUS •
• Wingspan: 8' (2.5m)
• Distribution: West Coast of Africa and Mediterranean
• Recognition: Deep red coloring; large arcing wing shape
• Habitat: Higher elevations, rocky and wooded environments
• Diet: Mammals, reptiles, birds
• Common names: Red Moon, Blood Angel
• Conservation status: Endangered END_OF_DIALOG