Art credit: Hibbary (http://hibbary.deviantart.com/art/Hyena-griffins-469775782)

Hyena Griffons

Smaller than the average griffon, these scavengers have the thick torsos and hindlegs of hyenas and the lanky head, forelegs, and wings of turkey vultures. They are typically found scouring blackened wastelands and scorching deserts for their next meal, though they can also be found in certain urban environments, given the right conditions.

Scavengers and Pests. Much like their normal animal conterparts, hyena griffens are looked upon in an unfavorable light by most humanoids. They are considered to be an annoyance and are frequently hunted for no other fact than that they are deemed pests. Despite this common attitude towards them, they are an important part of many of the more sparse ecosystems, and help to prevent disease through their scavenging.

Gnoll Companions. Hyena griffons can frequently be seen traveling alongside gnoll packs, scavenging their kills. Some gnoll packs will train these avian creatures as lookouts and scouts, while others consider them as almost pets. On rare occasions, hyena griffons will eat from a gnoll fang of Yeenogu's kill, sometimes resulting in a half-gnoll, half-vulture monstrosity. These monsters usually die immediately due to their unnatural biology, but the few who survive will typically be seen as gnolls with outlandish features such as wings, talons, and even extra limbs or heads.

Death Omens. Due to their off-putting appearance and their association with vultures, hyenas, and gnolls, the hyena griffons are viewed as bringers of bad luck and death. In some societies, to see a hyena griffon up close is a warning that you or someone you know may soon perish.