Creature:Toadclaw
Toadclaw
Toadclaws are medium-sized amphibious creatures that live near large bodies of water, both salt and freshwater. They can be found in almost every place where there is a decent amount of water, including underground, foul water sources, rives, lakes, and oceans. Typically harmless, their small pincers are used for catching small fish or manipulating objects. They are not able to swim, instead walking on the bottom of the water body. They can, however, breathe both underwater and outside of the water, able to stay in both places for extended periods of time if necessary. Most people consider them to be a simple nuisance when going near the water, as they enjoy trying to attack anything that comes into their territory. They are prey for many creatures, especially skiron.
Eastern Toadclaw
Eastern toadclaws are the most common variety and are typically found in the eastern areas of Hedaware and on the islands of Halia and Vethrala.
Toxic Toadclaw
While most varieties of toadclaw are harmless, the toxic toadclaw is definitely not. These creatures, while being nearly identical to eastern toadclaws, secrete a highly toxic oil through their skin. They use this toxin to poison would-be predators so they can get an easy meal.
Western Toadclaw
Basically the same as any other normal toadclaw, these guys live in the western regions. They can be found near bodies of water in Yaotlan, Laona, and the coast of Setosia.
Scalloped Toadclaw
These toadclaws are also relatively harmless. They live in more central regions, such as Moya Ardhi. They have tadpole-like tails that enable them to swim a little, unlike other varieties that cannot swim.
Marsh Toadclaw, or Marshclaw
These guys are a bit smaller than usual varieties of toadclaw, but still as harmless. They are slicker and have more of a frog-like texture compared to others that have hard shells. They are typically found in the marshes, such as in Boghaunt, but have been seen in other areas inland, such as around lakes or rivers.
Razorback Toadclaw, or Razorclaw
These are the ones that look the most dangerous, but compared to the Toxic Toadclaw, they aren't harmful at all. The only thing dangerous about them is the spines on their back, which serve as a protection against predators. They are extremely sharp, so it's advised to not handle them with bare hands. They are like little blades that make small but deep cuts, which is usually enough to protect them from most predators, although there are some that have still found a way to eat them anyway. They are found in many inland areas, although they do not travel in large packs like some other varieties of toadclaw.
Spiky Toadclaw, or Spikeclaw
These guys are only found near bodies of saltwater. They primarily eat tiny fishes, but have been seen eating sea grass or seaweed also. They are less frog-shaped than freshwater toadclaws, resembling lobsters a bit more instead. They are primarily noted for the tiny spikes all over their body. They are not that sharp, though, so it isn't hard to handle them if necessary. The largest amount of them are typically found on the shores of Yaotlan and Laona.
Smiling Toadclaw
These toadclaws always look happy, hence the name! They are found in coastal areas of Vethrala and Fa Cas. They have been noted as being less hostile than other toadclaws, with some reporting that they were able to mind their own business on the beach without them attacking.