Pillar Ibex

Written by Isabella Description: Pillar ibex look much like traditional ibex, albeit with dramatic variations in the appearance of their horns, and much, much taller. The reason for this incredible size is unknown. It is believed that pillar ibex can only be found in the Ribs of Adylheim. Their horns are long, and extremely jagged, almost like they are covered in backwards-sweeping spikes.

Habitat/Distribution: The Ribs; chiefly on the dangerous, rocky slopes where only the smallest bit of vegetation grows.

Food: Herbivores. Usually nibbles at the permanent greens that grow on the mountainside all year round.

Size: A full-grown male pillar ibex can grow up to an astounding seven feet tall-- and this does not include their horns. Females are similar in size, but their horns are not nearly so prominent as on their male counterparts. This enormity in height is the foundation for the name "Pillar" ibex. Most of the height is in the legs.

Reproduction: Mating occurs twice a year: once in the spring, and once in the fall. Pregnant females usually give birth after five months. Roughly forty per cent of all fawns will die in their first year due to the treacherous slopes and the threat of snow leopards. Males compete for the right to breed, but a winner in a duel is no guarantee of the ability to breed. Likewise, a loser is not necessarily doomed to never be allowed to breed.

Temperament: Wary but gentle females provide contrast to the more agressive males, who will attack an intruder on their territory.

Predators: Snow leopards, hunters (are most often hunted for trophy).

Mutations: General mutations.

Relatives: The ibex; the deer; other hoofed mammals.

Habits: Pillar ibex do not migrate.