Creature:Dernak

The Dernak is a large omnivorous arachnid-like creature native to grasslands of the southern hemisphere of planet Bural. Due to their size, Dernaks are considered a Class A Dangerous Life-Form, and it is against Buralian law to either disturb a Dernak in it's natural habitat, or keep one as a pet.

Subspecies
Two smaller subspecies of Dernak inhabit various islands around the coast of Bural's southern continent, the Coastal Dernak and the Kanti Island Dernak

The Coastal Dernak has slightly broader feet to allow it to move swiftly across the sandy shores to catch small creatures such as crabs. To help it catch fish, the two claws at the front of the creature have evolved into two, sharp daggers, which it jabs into the water when it detects fish. This does have a disadvantage, however, as Coastal Dernaks may accidently stab each other with their claws.

The Kanti Island Dernak is the smallest of the subspecies, and inhabits tropical rainforests of Kanti Island. The two claws located on the front of the creature are useful tools for clearing pathways through the vegetation.

Habitat
Dernaks are found exclusively at the southern hemisphere of planet Bural, due to it's warm climate and abundance of prey. The Dernak favors grasslands, as they allow it to sneak up on it's prey, although the two subspecies live in different habitats.

Breeding
Dernaks are solitary creatures, and will only come together to breed. In order to mate, males compete with each other, showing off their large front claws. Sometimes, however, fights can break out, which can result in serious injuries.

Once she is pregnant, a female Dernak will spend most of the time searching for a nest for her young. If she cannot find one, she will often steal one from a less experienced female.

Dernak larvae are very small, grub-like creatures that feed on scraps that their mother feeds them. They still have teeth, however, and large groups have been known to chase any creatures careless enough to wander into the nest.

Diet
Dernaks are omnivores, and will eat almost anything they come across. Due to their large size, Dernaks are rather slow, lumbering creatures that require stealth to successfully capture their prey.

Conservation Status
Dernaks are a least concern species, as their habitat is highly secured, meaning only scientists and ecologists are allowed access.