COMC Hippogriffs

A Hippogriff is a magical creature that is very similar to a more well known creature - the Griffin. Hippogriffs have the front legs, head, and wings of an enormous Eagle, and the body and hind legs of a horse. The breeding of Hippogriffs is an established career, with images of these "fancy" Hippogriffs sometimes making their way into calendars. The Hippogriff's coat changes smoothly from feathers to hair, and they come in a variety of colors: stormy grey, bronze, pinkish roan, gleaming chestnut, and inky black. Hippogriffs are very beautiful, but err with caution, as they are carnivorous and extremely dangerous when untamed. Taming a Hippogriff should only be attempted by a trained Witch or Wizard. The diet of Hippogriffs is mainly insects, birds, and small mammals (such as ferrets). If no other food is available, they will sometimes paw at the ground to find worms. During their breeding, Hippogriffs make their nests on the ground and lay a single, very fragile egg. The egg hatches after about 24 hours, and the infant Hippogriff is capable of flight within one week. However, it takes many months before they are strong enough to accompany their parents on long journeys. When humans approach Hippogriffs, a proper etiquette must be maintained in order to avoid danger. Hippogriffs are proud creatures, and an individual must show proper respect by bowing to them, and waiting for them to bow in return before approaching. Eye contact should be maintained at all times, without a single blink. The Hippogriff should be allowed to make the first move, as this is polite. If offended, it may attack. Hippogriffs are tameable, but only by experts in their care. Owners of Hippogriffs are required by law to cast a Disillusionment Charm on the creature every day to prevent it from being seen by Muggles. Using Hippogriffs for personal transportation is also illegal under the International Statute of Wizarding Secrecy.