Greater Aukephale

A creature originally done for the creature contest going on over at Helpful Bear Productions!

DESCRIPTION:

This animal inhabits rocky island shores and cliffs and can be found basking on sunny days. Because the climate of its habitat is so unstable, it has evolved unique features that allow it to survive no matter the conditions.

During the warmer months, the Aukephale stays mostly on land, using the duck-billed portion of its jaw to rip tough, nutritious tubers off the rocks. Since the tubers grow in the darkness and moisture of cliffside caves, the Aukephale must hang its head over the edge of a cliff and into the openings to reach them. This often gives them the appearance of having no head, hence the name given to it by early sailors that used to pass by the islands (from the Greek aképhalos, or headless).

In winter, when the tubers retreat into their shells and vegetation is scarce, the Aukephale takes to the sea, preying on the fish and squid that live in the frigid depths.

The defining feature of the Aukephale is its versatile head and jaw that works perfectly both right side up and upside down!