Dire Bear

The Darkwood dire bear is a very large ursid native to the Darkwood Forest in the Land of Prosperity. Adults can reach over thirteen feet in length and stand over six feet at the shoulder, weighing up to two and a half tons. They are extremely aggressive toward conspecifics and other large animals, including sentient races.

Primarily solitary, Darkwood dire bears form temporary associations during mating and when sows rear cubs. Activity peaks at dawn and dusk. Individuals mark trees with claw rakes and scent and follow habitual travel routes. When encountered, they rarely engage in bluff displays, instead favoring lethal force to defend carcasses, cubs, and territory.

Mating occurs from late spring to early summer. Like many ursids, they exhibit delayed implantation, with one to three cubs born during winter denning. Cubs remain with the mother for up to two years; females breed at intervals of two to three years.

Encounters with these dire bears in the Darkwood Forest occur most often along logging spurs, traplines, and the trade road out of Mox City. They will not hesitate to attack mounted travelers and caravans, especially if they are hungry. And they are almost always hungry.