Spineflipper

Splitting from its ancestor, the spineflipper has become completely aquatic, thriving in the warm, tropical waters off of continental Darwin and Drake. Peaceful and typically solitary, they will form loose "herds" as they slowly graze off of whatever vegetation there is to be found, all awhile keeping watch for potential predators such as scylarians. Though swimming away is their best bet, they can stand their ground by stabbing at threats with their rear spine-like nails or a quick nip from their beaks. Females are typically larger than males. Upon giving birth, typically to one or two young, they watch over them in the shallows, protecting them from whatever threats might endanger them, as well as helping them learn how to survive. This typically takes three years. At age six, the young are sexually mature and will begin to produce children of their own. Behaviorally, these creatures tend to live calm lives, floating gently in the currents, anchoring themselves only to eat and sleep. They tend to sun themselves at the surface from time to time, basking in the warm sunlight, especially around the early morning.