Trostian Mammoths are, given by their name, large creatures belonging to the family of Elephantidae. Known for their scientific name as Mammuthus trostinae, their size and strength can often be intimidating, which is why they are mainly domesticated by several Northeast Selyrian Tribes. This document is used to inform about these creatures and what they do.
The Trostian Mammoth stands at about 4.5 meters tall, with maximum heights reaching 5 meters on males and 4 meters on females. Formally discovered in 1570 FS in the frozen forests of Trost, these massive beasts are often covered in thick fur, in which the locals would use for warm fur coats. Their tusks are made of hard keratin, which the creatures use for self defense and fighting for mates. These tusks could grow up to 4 meters on average for males, and 3.7 meters for females. They have double coats, with their outer coat made of long and bristle fur, while the inner coat is made up of fine softer hair. This makes their coat able to withstand the cold environments of the Snowy Trost plains.
Wild Trostian Mammoths are often found in forests during the cold winter months, and in plains during the summer. They often travel in tight groups called ‘herds’ along with other species. Scholars have speculated that this cooperative behavior is an evolutionary method to ward off predators. Trostrian Tribes call this ‘Metsästyskausi’ or ‘Hunting Season’ as often these tribes would capture wild mammoths and other species to use as a source of meat, clothing, transportation, and weaponry for war.
Trostian Mammoths use their tusks to show who is the most dominant of the group. Often, males would compete in a fight to show who is the dominant mammoth of the herd. Whoever wins that fight will be the new leader, gaining access to the females as mates. Research has shown that males usually stay on the outermost parts of the herd, while the females are on the inside. Other sources also state that females usually prefer males with longer tusks, as it shows a higher chance of being protected. Mating season usually begins in the summer as the herd has migrated to the northern plains. And mothers usually give birth to 1 offspring at a time.
A young Trostian Mammoth is called a ‘calf’. Calves are born usually near the winter before the herd migrates to the south. This pattern is also an evolutionary feature, as females being pregnant in the winter can pose a large threat. Although there are recorded instances of late birth, these calves often do not survive due to the harsh winter, as their coat is still not fully developed. This can be seen with their grayish white coat when still young. Scholars point this out as a work of evolution, as young mammoths are usually vulnerable, and having a white coat lessens their chances of being harmed.
Calves are usually born, then immediately breastfed by their mothers for 2 months before they can fully stand up. After 5 months of being weaned by their mothers, they start shedding their old coat and begin their journey with the herd. And during this time, they stay with their mothers until they are old enough to join the ranks of the males in protecting the herd.
More research and funding is still needed, as there is still some language barrier between the Trostian Locals, the Trostian Kingdom’s government, and the ongoing current political situation in the region. With this in mind, more info shall be added if such incidences shall occur.