Swamp Yeti

Everyone has heard of them but few have ever actually seen one. Most of the sentient races discount the existence of the swamp yeti. The shy, retiring nature of these gentle beasts tends to keep them out of the public eye. The stereotype of the uneducated, swamp-dwelling simpletons that claim to have seen them, the near-religious fervor with which many rural enthusiasts seek proof of their existence, and the dubious to downright fraudulent nature of the evidence proffered all work to relegate these elusive creatures to mere folk tale.

Clandestine Clans. Swamp yeti actually do exist in small to medium sized enclaves, from sub-tropical wetlands to more temperate bogs and even subarctic marshlands. They also inhabit thickly wooded areas from temperate deciduous forests to the evergreens that border the habitat of their more alpine cousins.

Swamp yeti clans are led by a bonded alpha pair, though a particularly skilled elder may also have tremendous influence, much like a tribal shaman.

Semi-Sentient Society. Though swamp yeti are not quite on par with the sapient races, they have a rudimentary culture of their own. Bonded pairs mate for life and raise young in family units. They speak in low grunts and growls, working together to procure food and defend against threats.

The yeti’s diet consists of nuts and berries, shoots and branches, insects and grubs, and small animals such as rodents and frogs.

This race of yeti maintains a well-ordered existence, instinctively aware of the benefit of remaining hidden from view. Self-regulating, they cover their tracks and keep a low profile. It is possible for a group of travelers to pass right through the midst of a whole blur of swamp yeti and never know of their existence, so long as they do not overtly threaten the safety of the clan.

Credit: Cryptosightings.com

Credit: Stranger Dimensions

Swamp Yeti Skunk Ape

Skunk apes are the most common of the swamp yeti in the tall tales of the ‘bigfoot hunters.’ Though they possess the same natural camouflage as the rest of their kin, skunk apes develop a powerful odor that lingers in the air, belying their presence. Often dismissed by travelers as just the natural, fetid smell of stagnant water, up close the stench can be overwhelming.

These brutes prefer to remain quietly hidden, but can be quite dangerous when threatened. Also, once they are riled, they are not so easily pacified.

Swamp Yeti Hurler

Younger and smaller than a full grown skunk ape, hurlers prefer to attack from a hidden perch in the trees. They use pine cones, berries, and other readily available natural ammunition. Hurlers are still formidable opponents, especially if one is foolish enough to grapple with them.

Swamp Yeti Naturopath

Swamp yeti live close to nature, having no concept whatsoever of the supernatural. They have no understanding of gods, religion, or magic. Those few that achieve the status of tribal elders use their superior natural instincts to move almost invisibly. They also take advantage of natural elements for healing, as well as to improve both the offensive and defensive abilities of their kin.