Creature of the Week - Yeti

Artwork by: Noemi Konkoly

Ecology

Introduction - The Yeti reside mostly in the frozen caves of the high mountain ranges. However, they are also seen on the frozen tundras when food is most plentiful. Their actual origins are a mystery, leading to much speculation. Theories range from a sub-branch of evolution to experiments by mages to create a hearty warrior well suited for winter combat. Local villages celebrate the Yeti as a divine being, the spirit of the mountain given tangible form.

Physical Observations - Yeti are massive bipedal humanoids that stand between 7'6”-9” feet tall, and can live to be 20 years old. They weigh in at 200-400 pounds of dense muscle, with a protective fat deposit over their necks and vital organs. They are omnivorous, though they favor a diet of meat. They have short curving claws and long canines designed to grab and hold frozen flesh. They also use these natural weapons to cut through the thick fur and blubber of their prey. Their feet are larger than a man's, but they are much broader to distribute their weight over loose snow. Yeti have long white hair to protect them from the elements. Their blue skin has only been observed by survivors. They communicate with a series of whistles and growls. Locals claim that the sound of a shrill winter wind is actually a Yeti's scream.

Social Observations - Yeti typically live in tribes of 3-5 members and their young. Tribes work together in all aspects of life from hunting to rearing young. Extremely violent or cruel yeti are cast out. These loners are the ones most likely to attack settlements or camps unprovoked.

Behavioral Observations – Nocturnal and with excellent night vision, they have a rudimentary skill with tools. They sometimes use large stones as weapons and to smash bones for the marrow. Favoring stealth in hunting, they use their white hair to blend in with their surroundings.

Inter Species Observations - Yeti typically avoid human contact, unless desperate or provoked. On very rare occasion they are seen hunting together with large wolves. Most creatures are seen as a food source. Attempts to tame and domesticate the Yeti have met with disastrous results, including death and massive collateral damage. In attempts to breed them as battle-stock they were as likely to turn on their trainers as their targets. Owning a Yeti is largely outlawed in civilized regions, though they are occasionally used in illegal gladiator rings in the frozen regions.