Rukaan (Cervus brumalis)

Origin: A robust variety of elk related to Cervus canadensis, Rukaan were worshipped and admired by humans for their wondrous size and strength. Some were successfully domesticated over the centuries and retain a strong bond with humankind while others remain wild and independent. A number of Rukaan gained the favor of the Norse gods, earning distinctive traits which they passed on to their offspring and forming the modern Rukaan bloodlines. For more information, see Lore - Ancients and Origins.

Diet: Grasses, leaves, bark and other plants.

Habitat: Rukaan evolved in the harsh Northern climates around mountains and forests but are hardy and adaptable. While wild populations of Rukaan are found only in the North, domesticated Rukaan may be found all over the world.

Lifespan: 40-50 years for Rukaan living in human care and 30-40 years in the wild. Capable of reproducing at the age of 2 and reach full maturity around 5-10 years.

Height: 160cm to 190cm (15.3hh to 18.3hh). On average, stags of this species are larger than does, and domesticated Rukaan are larger than wild-bred individuals. [Note: This is the most common range. Individuals may be smaller or larger than this due to dietary or genetic reasons.]

Colors: As with many domesticated breeds, Rukaan come in many more colors than their purely wild ancestors and are more likely to have white markings or natural white. The most common colors are black and white which best allow them to camouflage themselves in the snowy forests.

Antlers: Like elk, Rukaan will typically shed and regrow their antlers once per year with each pair growing larger than the last. Unlike elk, their antlers come in a variety of shapes and they seem to have control over when and whether they drop their antlers. Both sexes grow antlers though those of the males tend to be larger and more impressive.

Reproduction: Rukaan breed once a year in Autumn during rut season in an incredibly impressive display. Males fight each other to drive off competitors and win over potential female mates. It is uncommon but not unheard of for a Rukaan doe to go into heat and be reproductively receptive outside of Autumn. Breedings result in a single calf (occasionally two and rarely three) who will stay with their mother until they are weaned the following rut. Most Rukaan will migrate to the Rukaan Ancestral Lands for rut, but plenty will find mates without making the journey.

Rukaan in the Wild: The Rukaan who have stayed wild over the centuries have a strong connection to nature and its elements. They’re masters of finding their way across terrain, even new stretches of land previously unfamiliar to them. They’re also quite attuned to the shift in weather and move well ahead of time to avoid heavy storms, something passing travelers often use to avoid getting trapped by the winds themselves. Thanks to generations of wisdom passed down from herd to herd, the wild Rukaan still have a limited mastery of nature magic and use this to survive the harsh wilderness of the North.