Cava: Difference between revisions
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'''Cava''' are a species of beaked, {{wp|Paravian}} therapod which are the direct descendants of the {{wp|Dromaeosauridae}} clade of dinosaurs. They are one of many intelligent, sapient species native to [[Urth]], and are characterised by their striking bird-like appearance featuring shiny black plumage, colourful crest feathers and corvid-like heads. Anatomically modern cava evolved in central [[Aurora]] approximately 2 Mya. They remained the dominant form of sapient life on the continent until their decline during most recent period of glaciation, when they were largely supplanted by humans and elves outside of several geographically isolated regions, the most notable of which being the Axdelian peninsula.
''(OOC note: Cava = singular & plural, Cavan = Adjective )''
== Evolution ==
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== Anatomy ==
Cava have an upright, humanoid appearance, but their skeletal structure differs significantly from most other sapient species. Like many therapods, parts of cavan skeletons are pneumatised and hollow, strengthened with criss-crossing struts. This provides great strength comparable to mammalian bones whilst being much lighter. Cava possess a vestigial keel bone on their sternum, which often appears as a noticeable bulge on the chest. Cavan Legs possess a digitigrade arrangement and their digits are tetradactyl, with four for each limb. Cavan feet have an anisodactyl arrangement and the hands consist of one opposable thumb and three main digits. Their skulls and beak are remarkably similar to that of corvids, indicative of their ancestors' generalist lifestyle and omnivorous diet. Intracranial volume is typically somewhat smaller than other sapient species, however neuron density is much greater and results in equivalent general intelligence.
The entire body of a Cava save for its forelimbs is covered in dark plumage with a blue-purple sheen. The upper to mid limbs feature several vestigial wing feathers akin to their dromaeosaur ancestors. The back of the head features a crest with three or more plumes of brightly coloured iridescent feathers that strongly reflect UV light. This may have served a role in sexual selection as the reflectivity is often an indicator of an individual's physical health. On average Cavan eyesight is better than other sapients, especially in terms of following movement and UV sensitivity, however they have noticeably poor contrast detection. Eye colour varies but light blue is the most common. Cava possess a syrinx organ instead of vocal cords which allows for a decent vocal range and even mimicry. Despite this, the lack of lips and teeth does limit the possible sounds they can make with ease which has had major impact on language and culture.
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