Orycteropus giganticus
The Orycteropus Giganticus (commonly named Oryc) is a large burrowing, nocturnal mammal native to South-East Keltia. The creature has a long pig-like snout, which is used to sniff out food. It roams over plains and deserts, avoiding areas that are mainly rocky. The Oryc creates burrows in the sand, and feeds on small creatures such as termites, worms and small lizards. It is also known to eat small birds.
The Oryc's body is stout with a prominently arched back and is sparsely covered with coarse hairs. The limbs are stubby, with the rear legs being longer than the forelegs. A grown Oryc weighs more than 200 kilos, and can reach a height of 1.5 meters and a length of 3 meters. Orycs also have a strong and large tail, which they use to fight of predators. A slap with an oryc's tail can be lethal for humans. The creatures are naturally shy towards humans, but can be domesticated and used as pack animals.
The Oryc is a common species in the deserts of Gran Verionia, where it is often used to carry freight. In the South of the country, the creatures are used to hunt for the Pink Truffle, a famous delicacy that is notoriously difficult to find.
