A natural history approach to the spiritual protectorates of Japanese Forests and Mountains, the Ten

A natural history approach to the spiritual protectorates of Japanese Forests and Mountains, the Tengu. Tengu are a medium sized, arboreal, humanoid inhabiting the lush mountain and forest terrain of Nippon . Communal and highly social, Tengu live in large extended family units with a matriarch or patriarch at the helm. Sexual dimorphism is subtle. Males and females be roughly the same size, color and shape. Males will come to display two bright yellow markings on their face during mating season. Both males and females display a large nose. Dominant elder males, however, have been recorded having noses that extended beyond their stomachs. Such a nose is incredibly attractive to highly selective females. While relatively docile in nature, if provoked, they can be quite dangerous, using their large fangs, claws and brute to wield fatal blows. This ferocity is especially displayed during territory disputes amongst rival clans.  While relatively high on the food chain Tengu are still susceptible to predation. Kitsune, Ryu and at times even oni will actively hunt adult Tengu. However it is the young pups who are most susceptible during their nascent voyages away from mom. While incredibly nimble in the trees, Tengu also are able to fly. Due to their robust bodies they can only fly for short distances but can cover vast distances despite this.An eclectic diet, Tengu are opportunistic eaters. With a diet ranging from fruits and nuts to Kappa chicks and small rodents. The Tengu captured here showcases one said prey item, a Kappa chick, one with it’s cranial embryonic sack still attached to its head. Due to their high intelligence Tengu are known tricksters who will regularly steal clothing, food and supplies from lost travelers. -- source link

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