It never fails to astound me the diversity that can develop within a family of flora or fauna. You think the common features they share would restrict them to a very similar formula, but how quickly you would be proven wrong! Harpies are one you would think stay pretty similar, and I once thought that as well! Learning about species like the Rahiruru challenged that notion a bit but it didn't seem too different. A harpy that lost its wings and bulked up, that isn't too radic-oh who am I kidding, yes that is a pretty big change. But my stubborn self kinda chalked that up to a fluke or simple luck. Stick anything on an island by itself for long enough and yes it is going to be very different. But once I learned about the Inmyeonjo, I finally had to concede defeat.
Like I stated before, the Inmyeonjo is a member of the harpy family, though it could be a bit hard to see the connection. The only real clue you get is their human-like face, but the rest of the body is quite different from your common harpy. First off, they are TALL! Long legs, long body and a real long neck! Their anatomy feels more fitting for a crane than a harpy! Then you notice the striking black and white feathers. It is similar color to the yuki-onna, but with how different the two's anatomy is, I am positive you won't be mistaking them! Not only is it sheer height, but the Inmyeonjo also has really long feathers, with the biggest tell being the single trailing feather on their head. It adds quite the regal look to them I must say!
The Inmyeonjo tends to live around alpine ecosystems and in the forests that surround mountains. They are omnivorous in diet, typically eating nuts, berries, and small animals. Their towering bodies help them spot prey with ease, and strong legs can pin them down to be eaten. Despite their size, they can fly, it just so happens that they spend a lot of their time on the ground. Seeing an Inmyeonjo in flight is uncommon, only really taking to the air when fleeing from predators or heading up the mountain to lay their eggs. Their size and talons are used to ward off attackers, and like I said, they will fly off if that isn't enough.
During the breeding season, male Inmyeonjo will woo the females through dance. Their act consists of a lot of strutting, head bobs and wing spreads. These dances occur in the open areas around the mountain, where it is easy for the ladies to see the performance. If things are looking good, the female Inmyeonjo will join in on the dance, and the two will seal this relationship through their dual act. They will fly up to the mountain and find a place to build a nest for their eggs. Inmyeonjo nest up there to cut down on the amount of predators that may threaten their young. However, with the weather and cold, it makes it more imperative that one of the parents is always sitting on the nest. They will switch off duty from time to time, but they will not leave this spot unattended until the young develop the proper feathers to withstand the temperatures.
For the locals of the regions where the Inmyeonjo lives, these birds are beloved and sacred. They are seen as creatures of royalty, symbolizing elegance and wisdom. For some, they may be messengers from the gods, while others see them as the emperors of all other birds. Wealthy estates and imperial gardens feel that an Inmyeonjo on their property is a must have, as these animals are practically status symbols. Due to their popularity with royalty, there have been breeds of them that are more familiar with humans and other folk. They are not quite domesticated, but comfortable enough with the presence of others that it isn't too far off. Which means if you ever have the chance to visit these gardens, you may actually have an encounter with a curious Inmyeonjo. Though their size may be intimidating, they are usually very friendly and are looking for attention or food. Worst case scenario, they may like a trinket you are carrying on your person and try to nab it. Keep such shiny baubles hidden away, as you will have a hard time keeping one of these birds from stealing it if they like it. And since they are royalty, you can't do a thing about! Ha, I guess they truly fit the bill! But that's just a joke, because I would never want to insult such gorgeous and graceful birds! And tall too! Out of the harpy species, the Inmyeonjo is absolutely my favorite!
Chlora Myron
Dryad Natural Historian
