Dracopedia Field Guide Read online

  DRACOPEDIA

  FIELD GUIDE

  WILLIAM O’CONNOR

  CINCINNATI, OHIO

  IMPACTuniverse.com

  Dedication

  This volume is dedicated to the readers who have found the

  world of Dracopedia to carry them further in their own creativity.

  To the O’Connor family, and to Samantha and Madeline;

  may you soar with the dragons.

  CONTENTS

  Note from the Editor

  CHAPTER 1:

  AMPHIPTERE

  Swallowtail Amphiptere

  Firewing Amphiptere

  Mothwing Amphiptere

  Garden Amphiptere

  Vulcan Amphiptere

  Starburst Amphiptere

  Striped Amphiptere

  Golden Amphiptere

  CHAPTER 2:

  ASIAN DRAGON

  Jade Dragon

  Temple Dragon

  Bonsai Dragon

  Imperial Dragon

  Korean Dragon

  Himalayan Dragon

  Spirit Dragon

  Fuji Dragon

  CHAPTER 3:

  SEA ORCS

  Jormundgander

  Scottish Sea Dragon

  Sea Lion

  Hammerhead Sea Orc

  Frilled Sea Orc

  Faeroe Sea Orc

  Electric Sea Orc

  Flying Sea Orc

  Striped Sea Orc

  Manta Sea Orc

  CHAPTER 4:

  FEYDRAGON

  Leafwing Feydragon

  Cardinal Feydragon

  Queen Mab Feydragon

  Excalibur Feydragon

  Swallowtail Feydragon

  Willowisp Feydragon

  Monarch Feydragon

  CHAPTER 5:

  GREAT DRAGONS

  Acadian Green Dragon

  Chinese Yellow Dragon

  Crimean Black Dragon

  Elwah Brown Dragon

  Icelandic White Dragon

  Ligurian Gray Dragon

  Scandinavian Blue Dragon

  Welsh Red Dragon

  CHAPTER 6:

  DRAKE

  Common Drake

  St. Cuthbert’s Drake

  St. George’s Drake

  Pit Drake

  Pyle’s Drake

  Ishtar Drake

  Wyeth’s Drake

  Siege Drake

  Racing Drake

  CHAPTER 7:

  HYDRA

  European Bull Hydra

  Japanese Hydra

  Cerebrus Hydra

  Medusan Hydra

  Winged Hydra

  Indian Hydra

  Marine Hydra

  Lernaen Hydra

  CHAPTER 8:

  BASILISK

  Sonoran Basilisk

  Strzelecki Basilisk

  Saharan Basilisk

  Gobi Basilisk

  Thar Basilisk

  Aetna Salamander

  Vesuvius Salamander

  Fuji Salamander

  Kilauea Salamander

  CHAPTER 9:

  ARCTIC DRAGON

  Zmey Dragon

  Kilin Dragon

  Great White Kilin

  Cooks Dragon

  Cloud Dragon

  Hoku Dragon

  Storm Dragon

  Luck Dragon

  CHAPTER 10:

  WYRM

  European King Wyrm

  American Banyan Wyrm

  African Striped Wyrm

  Asian Marsh Wyrm

  European Lindwyrm

  Indian Drakon

  CHAPTER 11:

  COATYL

  South American Coatyl

  Egyptian Serpent

  Phoenix

  CHAPTER 12:

  DRAGONETTE

  American Appaloosa Dragonette

  Courier Dragonette

  Messenger Dragonette

  Abyssinian Dragonette

  Waynesford Dragonette

  CHAPTER 13:

  WYVERN

  Sea Wyvern

  Asian Wyvern

  Golden Wyvern

  North American Wyvern

  Contributors

  About the Author

  A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

  THE STAFF OF NORTH LIGHT AND IMPACT BOOKS was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of artist William O’Connor in early 2018, shortly after he began work on the Dracopedia Field Guide. Bill was thought of fondly by all who worked with him on his five previous books, and we will miss him dearly.

  We would like to thank Jeff Menges for his gracious and invaluable assistance in helping us complete Bill’s vision for this book, and for inviting many of Bill’s colleagues and friends to participate as contributors. We would also like to thank Jeff’s wife, Lynne Menges, for her support and review of the book’s text during the writing process.

  The following artists have our sincerest thanks for providing artwork for this project: Samantha O’Connor, Tom Kidd, Scott Fischer, Donato Giancola, Dan dos Santos, Mark Poole, David O. Miller, Jeremy McHugh, Pat Lewis, Jeff A. Menges, Christine Myshka and Rich Thomas.

  Our best wishes go out to Bill’s family and friends. The scope of the world that this fantastic artist invented with Dracopedia is incredible, and we will always remember him and his beautiful, imaginative creations.

  Noel Rivera

  Managing Content Director

  North Light & IMPACT Books

  AMPHIPTERE

  Draco amphipteridae

  Striped Amphiptere

  Pencil and digital

  14" × 22" (36cm × 56cm)

  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.

  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.

  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 (see chapter 8).

  The Cockatrice

  The cockatrice is a hybrid between the amphitere and domesticated fowl.

  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.

  The Grip of a Snake

  The amphiptere’s slender body can be wrapped around tree limbs, allowing it to snatch its unsuspecting prey.

  SWALLOWTAIL AMPHIPTERE

  Easily identified by its unique split tail, the swallowtail amphiptere is commonly found in rural environments, where it can be seen as both an aid and a hindrance. While it will keep rodents in check, it is not above occasionally taking smaller livestock as well.

  SPECIFICATIONS

  Amphipterus viperacaudiduplexu

  Wingspan: 6' (2m)

  Distribution: Worldwide, temperate climates

  Recognition: Distinctive split tail; bold striping; forward nasal horn

  Habitat: Rural areas, large fields

  Diet: Insects, smaller mammals and reptiles

  Common names: Field Fiend, Darter

  Conservation status: Common

  FIREWING AMPHIPTERE

  The firewing’s tail features a dorsal-like winglet that gives it outstanding maneuverability and an advantage in tight, dense spaces that another species might be unable to navigate. It is especially quick and elusive.

  SPECIFICATIONS

  Amphipterus viperapennignus

  Wingspan: 5' (1.5m)

  Distribution: Asia, India and Southeast Asia

  Recognition: Bright, elongated head crest; spoon-shaped tail

  Habitat: Dense jungle

  Diet: True scavenger, will eat almost anything

  Common name: Blaze

  Conservation status: Threatened

  MOTHWING AMPHIPTERE

  The mothwing is called such because of its tendency to rest its wings in an open, rather than folded, position when still. Its desire to catch more of the sun’s heat has evolved into a characteristic trait.

  SPECIFICATIONS

  Amphipterus viperablattus

  Wingspan: 1' (30cm)

  Distribution: Northern Asia and Scandinavia

  Recognition: Open wings when resting, rarely folded

  Habitat: Scrub, light forest

  Diet: Insects, small rodents, fish

  Common names: Red Whip, Flicker

  Conservation status: Uncommon

  GARDEN AMPHIPTERE

  The most common of the group, the garden amphiptere has wide distribution and can prosper in almost any climate. With subtle variations in patterns and wing shape, it is the variety most likely seen by the farmer or in a suburban setting.

  SPECIFICATIONS

  Amphipterus viperahortus

  Wingspan: 1' (30cm)

  Distribution: Near worldwide

  Recognition: Jagged tail fin; beak-like jaws

  Habitat: Any forested area

  Diet: Insects and small rodents most common prey due to smaller size

  Common names: Dusty Rose, Jagged Hook Wing

  Conservation status: Common

  VULCAN AMPHIPTERE

  Preferring higher, rocky environments for nesting, this amphiptere was first discovered on the slopes of Mount Aetna in Sicily, which is where its Roman label originated. Though they are often found near volcanic areas, it is the loose rock that draws them, not the volcanic activity.

  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

  STARBURST AMPHIPTERE

  A coastal scavenger, the starburst uses its long, narrow snout to dig for shellfish on sandy beaches. Occasionally dieting on fish as well, it can be a nuisance to fishermen. Its small and forward-facing nasal horn is used to break eggs and open shells.

  SPECIFICATIONS

  Amphipterus viperacometus

  Wingspan: 4' (1.2m)

  Distribution: Pacific Rim

  Recognition: High contrast red and ivory coloring; long, thin snout

  Habitat: Coastal areas, will sometimes attach itself to a boat

  Diet: Shellfish, eggs, marine animals

  Common names: Firewisp, Crooner, Red Digger

  Conservation status: Uncommon

  STRIPED AMPHIPTERE

  Common in forested environments, the striped amphiptere often competes with avian raptors for the small mammals of the forest. On rare occasions such competition can result in spectacular territorial battles.

  SPECIFICATIONS

  Amphipterus viperasignus

  Wingspan: 3' (1m)

  Distribution: Temperate climates, worldwide

  Recognition: Wing striping from red to brown, gradual from front to back; tapering tail has two barbs near wing base

  Habitat: Forest and field

  Diet: Small rodents

  Common names: Thorntail, Striper

  Conservation status: Common

  GOLDEN AMPHIPTERE

  The enlarged wings and great size of the golden amphiptere allow it to soar for great distances. Though rare, it has been identified in all areas of the globe, unafraid to cross a vast plain, mountain range or even an ocean.

  SPECIFICATIONS

  Amphipterus viperaurulentus

  Wingspan: 10' (3m)

  Distribution: South and Central America

  Recognition: Bright golden color

  Habitat: Brushland, farmland

  Diet: Small herd animals

  Common name: Wheatwing

  Conservation status: Critically endangered

  ASIAN DRAGON

  Draco cathaidae

  Temple Dragon

  Pencil and digital

  14" × 22" (36cm × 56cm)

  BIOLOGY

  The Asian dragon family includes a wide variety of long, serpentine, four-legged dragons with prehensile tails. Asian dragons are unique in that they are in the order of flightless dragons (Terradracia) like drakes but are capable of limited flight. The reason for this is because they do not possess dedicated appendages for flight like dragons and dragonettes. Instead, an Asian dragon uses a unique construction of frills along its body to glide or “swim” through the air.

  Asian dragons come in a wide variety of colors, sizes and shapes, and can live in a wide range of habitats, from the mountains of the Tibetan Himalayas to the jungles of Vietnam to the Philippines and into India.

  Because of the Asian dragon’s similarity to the Arctic dragon, many species are often miscategorized. This mistake is understandable since the Asian and Arctic dragon species share some habitats in Asia and are often depicted interchangeably in classical Asian art. However, the two families are very different. Asian dragons do not grow fur, nor do they live above the Arctic Circle. Arctic dragons in turn do not have the gliding ability of the Asian species or a prehensile tail.

  Asian dragons are omnivores, eating fruits, bamboo and meat as it is available. In the winter in the northern areas of its range, the Asian dragon will migrate to warmer climates.

  Asian Dragon Head

  The Asian dragon commonly displays its whiskers to sense close-range movement.

  Asian Dragon Habitat

  Bamboo forests provide an ideal environment, but their gradual disappearance i
s limiting the habitat of Asian dragons.

  Asian Dragon Overhead

  A definitive look at the frilled wings on an Asian temple dragon as seen from above.

  BEHAVIOR

  Although there are a great number of species, the Asian dragon is a solitary and remote creature keeping to uninhabited areas of deep forest. Living in the dense forests of Asia with an ample food supply of small animals and fruits to choose from allows the Asian dragon to grow up to 30' (9m) in length. Its main rival as the alpha predator is the tiger and other large cats. The Asian dragon is an agile and powerful fighter. The long serpentine body is able to constrict around an enemy, similar to the wyrm, and its four legs are equipped with sharp talons for fighting. They have a jaw of sharp teeth, and a few species possess the ability to spit a caustic expectorant to frighten enemies. If the Asian dragon were not so reclusive and shy, it would be far more dangerous to humans, but there are very few injuries attributed to it.

  Asian Dragon Egg, 8' (20cm)

  A rich ivory to an antique gold, and very even in surface finish. The egg of the Asian dragon is revered as a magical object.

  HISTORY

  Beautiful and elegant creatures, the Asian dragons are revered in many Eastern countries and are heralded as sacred animals in the Shinto, Hindu and Buddhist religions. The depictions of the Asian dragon in art, architecture, clothing and crafts are extensive throughout all Asian countries, and references in libraries and museums are readily available.