Giant Vulture

Giant Vulture

Large beast, neutral evil

1
Challenge Rating
200 XP

The giant vulture is a massive bird of prey that soars through the skies, instilling both awe and unease with its impressive size and ominous presence.

With a wingspan stretching several meters wide, the giant vulture cuts a striking figure as it effortlessly glides on thermal currents, surveying the land below for its next meal. Its feathers are predominantly black, with some variations showcasing shades of gray or brown. Its sharp beak and keen eyesight make it a formidable hunter.

These scavengers possess incredible strength and agility, allowing them to swoop down with great speed and precision to seize their prey. From small rodents to carrion left behind by larger predators, the giant vulture has a voracious appetite for the deceased. Its strong beak easily tears through flesh, while its powerful talons provide a secure grip on its meals.

Despite their reputation as scavengers, giant vultures are not to be underestimated in combat. When provoked or threatened, they can become aggressive and fiercely defend their territory or nesting sites. With powerful wings and sharp talons, they can deliver devastating strikes to those who encroach upon their domain.

Giant vultures are highly adaptable creatures, capable of surviving in a range of environments, including deserts, grasslands, and even mountains. They often gather in flocks, soaring in mesmerizing formations that can instill a sense of both awe and foreboding.

In certain cultures, giant vultures are associated with death and decay, and their appearance is seen as an omen or symbol of impending doom. Their presence in folklore and mythology is often tied to themes of mortality, serving as harbingers of ill fortune or agents of the afterlife.

Encountering a giant vulture in the wild can be a thrilling yet unnerving experience. Their massive size and piercing gaze can make even the most seasoned adventurers wary. It is wise to keep a respectful distance and avoid provoking these powerful creatures unless absolutely necessary.

Those who manage to forge a bond with giant vultures can benefit from their aerial prowess, employing them as loyal companions or utilizing their keen eyesight to scout ahead during perilous journeys. However, earning their trust requires patience, skill, and a deep understanding of these majestic yet enigmatic creatures.

Special Abilities

Keen Sight and Smell

The vulture has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight or smell.

Pack Tactics

The vulture has advantage on an attack roll against a creature if at least one of the vulture’s allies is within 5 ft. of the creature and the ally isn’t incapacitated.

Actions

  • Multiattack: The vulture makes two attacks: one with its beak and one with its talons.
  • Beak: Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) piercing damage.
  • Talons: Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (2d6 + 2) slashing damage.

Lore

The Stream

Armor Class: 10 (DEX)
Hit Points: 22 (3d10+6)
Speed: 10 ft. (walk), 60 ft. (fly)
str
+2
15
dex
+0
10
con
+2
15
int
-2
6
wis
+1
12
cha
-2
7
Proficiency Bonus: +2

Proficiencies

  • Skill: Perception +3

Senses

  • Passive Perception: 13
Languages: understands Common but can't speak
Environment: Desert, Grassland

Credits: SRD 5.1