Big Game Hunting

Argo Study Trip, Entry 1
Day 1: Big Game Hunting

First day in the wilds of Argo, and already, we have struck a goldmine. This being the peak of the wet season, large prey items are moving across the grasslands of Tas in large numbers. The Braciteros are among the largest of these, and at up to 30 tons in weight, they are among the largest animals ever to grace the planet. Their size is their protection against all meat-eaters - except for one.
Despite being normally solitary hunters, Cranigors do find time to hunt and fight in pairs, typically mated pairs. This is extremely helpful when dealing with prey items heavier than they are, such as adult Braciteros that are separated from the herd (though they usually go only for sick or old individuals). I was lucky enough to observe the hunting habits of one particular Cranigor, dubbed "Simba," and his mate, "Nala," at the tail-end of the afternoon. While one Cranigor distracts the target, the other moves in from an unexpected direction and wounds it. Then the wyverns take turns and repeat the procedure. It took about an hour for Simba and Nala to bring down the elder Braciteros they had cornered - especially since Simba is presumably about ten feet shorter than Zor, the largest known individual. Still, while hunting the Braciteros is a relatively slow, drawn-out process, the bonanza of meat provided is usually worth the effort - and the risk.

Drawing 1 of 12 for ~The-Great-Stash. The Cranigor's skull patterns remind me of the T-rex from Dinosaur Revolution, now that I think about it. I would have put a black spot on the chest of the male, but eh, I may end up getting to that part later.

Cranigor and Braciteros (c)