One of the many native creatures of Epifania, the Desert-Strider Gryphos (or just Gryphos) is perhaps one of the most clever creatures roaming what is mostly a backwater desert planet with little to no value in the eyes of the Republic/Empire.
The larger and stronger females are known for forming very strong bonds with not only their own young, but aspiring riders as well. If their hatchlings or riders are ever in danger, the females won't hesitate to defend them even if it means getting hurt in the process.
The flashier and smaller males on the other hand, are much more cowardly than their female counterparts and tend to avoid conflict, which makes them good lookouts and alarm systems.
To determine the gender of a hatchling (which displays no sexual dimorphism whatsoever, and has too thick a layer of feathers to find their reproductive organs) one must observe their behavioural traits. Male chicks will flee if approached, while females chicks will charge headfirst into danger.
