Alterra HQ 4546b creature logs: Subnautica/ below zero

Titan Kitewing/Gigantoptera titanius (2#S)

Class: Unknown:

Behavior:

Diurnal Hunters: Titan Kitewings are primarily diurnal, emerging from their icy burrows at dawn to hunt. They exhibit an extraordinary fishing technique, diving into the frigid waters with precision to snatch unsuspecting prey before ascending rapidly back into flight. Their streamlined bodies and powerful wings allow them to perform these maneuvers with remarkable speed and accuracy.

Attraction to Luminescence: These creatures are notably attracted to shiny lights. This behavior has been observed in their aggressive interactions with vehicles and equipment that have reflective surfaces. Titan Kitewings have been known to lift such objects up to 65 meters into the air and drop them repeatedly onto hard surfaces. This behavior likely serves both as a method of testing objects for edibility and as a display of dominance.

Dangerous Traits:

Territorial Aggression: Titan Kitewings are highly territorial and will aggressively defend their perching sites from intruders, including humans and vehicles. They perceive any incursion into their domain as a threat and will not hesitate to attack.

Powerful Predatory Instincts: Equipped with sharp talons and a formidable beak, Titan Kitewings are capable of inflicting serious damage. Their hunting technique, which involves swift dives and precise strikes, translates effectively to defensive actions against perceived threats.

Aerial Dominance: The ability to lift and drop objects from great heights poses a significant threat to explorers and their equipment. This behavior can damage or destroy vital resources and may result in injury or death to unprotected individuals.

Habitat:

Perching Sites: Titan Kitewings prefer to perch on the tall spikes of ice that dominate their frozen landscape. They utilize their natural burrowing instincts to create warm refuges within these ice spires, providing shelter during the night and extreme weather conditions. These perching sites are typically elevated, offering the birds a vantage point to spot prey and monitor their territory.

Additional Notes:

Thermal Adaptation: The Titan Kitewing's burrowing behavior not only provides warmth but also helps them conserve energy during the harshest conditions. This adaptation is crucial for survival in their frigid habitat, where temperatures plummet drastically.

Communication: These creatures communicate through a series of high-pitched calls that can be heard echoing across the icy plains, especially during the mating season. These calls serve to establish territory, attract mates, and coordinate hunting activities.

Caution Advised: Explorers are advised to avoid shiny or reflective equipment when traversing areas known to be inhabited by Titan Kitewings. The presence of these creatures significantly elevates the threat level due to their territorial nature and powerful predatory instincts.

Weaknesses and Countermeasures:

Visual Distraction: Titan Kitewings are highly attracted to luminescent and reflective objects. Using decoy lights or reflective materials at a safe distance may distract them, allowing explorers to pass through their territory unscathed.

Loud Noises: These creatures are sensitive to sound. Yelling loudly, and sudden noises can startle and deter them from approaching. 

Camouflage: Avoiding reflective surfaces and using camouflage that blends with the icy environment can help reduce the likelihood of attracting attention. Materials that absorb light rather than reflect it are particularly effective.

Environmental Awareness: Observing the behavior and flight patterns of Titan Kitewings from a distance can provide valuable insights into their routines, enabling explorers to plan safer routes and times for travel.

Size: This specimen is measured to be 26 meters(85 feet)

Assessment: Threat level medium - Avoid anything shiny if possible.