Lish

The Lish is a large mammal noted for its thick leathery hide. It related to both the Bovidae and Rhinocerotidae families. Lish were originally　native to areas of Daistallia. They are economically important in both Daistallia 2104 and especially among The Hri.

Herds

Lish are social and live in herds, usually of around 10–20 animals but sometimes over 100. Winter herds consist of adults of both sexes as well as young animals. During the breeding season, males compete for dominance, and one dominant bull drives other adult males out of the group. Herds are famous for making a defence ring when they feel threatened.

Biology

Adult Lish weigh more than 300 kg and can be as large as 500 kg. Lish are usually around 2.5 m long and 1.5 m high at the shoulder. The hide is covered in long guard hairs that reach almost to the ground in some species. They can achieve an age of 25.

Environmental Adaptations

Adaptations to their habitat include the following characteristics:

A thick, leathery layered skin that protects against thorns and sharp grasses.

A thick upper lip, adapted for seizing and grasping objects which helps in browsing and foraging.

A large nose and an excellent sense of smell to detect predators.

Formidable horns used for defense and intimidation.

An aggressive disposition which discourages predators. The animal's nearsightedness seems to urge a "charge first and investigate later" defense.

Diet

The Lish is a herbivorous browser/grazer. They graze on grasses, reeds, sedges, and leafy ground plants. They are know for digging through snow in the winter to reach their food.

Mating

Females are sexually mature at six years of age, and males reach sexual maturity after seven or eight years. The gestation period is eight or nine months. Mating does not have a seasonal pattern but live births tend to be towards the end of the summer. A new born calf averages 50 kg. Generally, females produce calves every two to three years. Almost all pregnancies are of a single calf; the young nurse for a year, but may start to eat grasses as soon as a week after birth.