Vulture

The Vulture is a scavenging bird known for its distinctive appearance and association with death and decay. These carrion-eating creatures often inhabit desolate landscapes and can be found circling the skies in search of their next meal.

Vultures are large birds with a wingspan that can reach several feet in length. They have a bald head and neck, which allows them to feed on carrion without getting their feathers dirty. Their hooked beak is designed for tearing flesh, while their sharp talons help them perch and navigate their surroundings.

While vultures are not inherently aggressive or dangerous, they possess a keen sense of smell and can detect the scent of death from great distances. They are drawn to carcasses and are often seen circling above battlefields or areas of decay. This association with death has led to their symbolic connection with dark or ominous events.

In the natural world, vultures play an important role in the ecosystem as nature’s clean-up crew. They can serve as atmospheric elements, adding a touch of foreboding or signaling the presence of danger. They may also be encountered as mundane creatures in desolate regions, their eerie presence reminding adventurers of the transient nature of life.

While vultures themselves are not typically aggressive, they may become defensive if threatened or if their food source is in jeopardy. They have been known to dive and attack with their sharp beaks and talons if provoked, making them a potential nuisance or hazard for those who encroach upon their territory.

Encountering a vulture can serve as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the natural order of decay. Their presence can add an element of realism and verisimilitude to the game world, as well as foreshadow impending danger or lead characters to areas of interest. Whether encountered as scavengers in barren wastelands, as omens of misfortune, or as opportunistic threats in the wild, vultures contribute to the immersive and dynamic nature of the realms of adventure and exploration.

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

• Beak: Melee Weapon Attack: +2 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 2 (1d4) piercing damage.

Proficiencies

• Skill: Perception +3