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Fifth Year - Lesson 6

Cockatrice

The Cockatrice is as dangerous as the Basilisk.  The head and legs of a rooster, the body and tail of a serpent, and the wings of the bat make the Cockatrice an exceedingly ugly beast.  The true risk of a Cockatrice is the same as the Basilisk.  The gaze of the Cockatrice petrifies the viewer.  This gives them their XXXXX (5X) rating.

No one is sure quite how the Cockatrice came to be.  There is a theory that the Cockatrice is, essentially, a failed attempt to create or breed a Basilisk.  Perhaps a wizard used the wrong egg, or the toad refused to sit on the egg.  What is known is that Cockatrices live in dark caves, avoiding the light.  Perhaps it senses that its ugliness should not be seen in the light of day.  They do reproduce, though no one is quite sure how.  It is believed that unless the young hatchling wanders away, it usually is petrified by its parent.

Manticore

Manticores are found in the mountainous areas of Greece.  They have the head of a man, the body of a lion, and the tail of a scorpion.  Some have been known to have wings, but it isn't known if that is a normal situation, or an odd attempt by a wizard to create something worse than already existed.  As might be surmised, Manticores are exceedingly dangerous, earning a XXXXX (5X) rating from the Ministry of Magic.  

While Manticores can speak, it is not wise to talk to them.  They will use their speaking abilities to lure human prey close enough to eat.  They are reputed to croon softly as they eat.  

In addition to the powerful body of a lion, the Manticore sting causes instant death.  Of greater danger to wizards, Manticore skin repel almost all known charms.  This, of course, makes their skin greatly prized.

Hippogriff

Hippogriffs are native to Europe, although they can now be found worldwide.  They prefer mountainous areas, where flight is easiest, but usually stay within the valleys.  They have the head and wings of a giant eagle and the body of a horse.  

Hippogriffs are a Class XXX (3X) creature.  They can be even be tames, though this should only be done by experts.  Hippogriffs demand respect.  Failure to show proper respect to a Hippogriff can result in attack.  Eye contact is extremely important.  It shows respect and a lack of fear.  Bowing shows good intentions.  Should the Hippogriff return the bow, you may safely approach.

Hippogriffs, like birds, usually burrow for insects.  They will eat birds and small mammals as well.  They build nests upon the ground, and lay a single egg which is both large and fragile.  The egg hatches within a day.  Within a week, the fledgling can fly.  It will be months before it can fly with its parent on longer journeys.

Some wizards prize Hippogriff fur and feathers for spells involving respect and honor.  Less honorable wizards are known to try to take a Hippogriff egg and use it for spells or to sell on the black market.

Fifth Year - Assignment 6

Direct your answers to your professor at comc@starpaw.com.  Clicking on this link will fill in year and assignment number.

All answers must be in your own words.  

Remember, making your answers interesting and/or amusing may result in bonus points at the end of the term.

1.  Describe a Cockatrice.

2.  What is the Cockatrice's Ministry of Magic rating?  Why does it have that rating?

3.  Describe a Manticore.

4.  What is the Manticore's Ministry of Magic rating?  Why does it have that rating?

5.  Describe a Hippogriff.

6.  What is the Hippogriff's Ministry of Magic rating?  Why does it have that rating?

7.  You are exploring a cave, and you spot an Cockatrice.  What do you do and why?

8.  You are by Mount Olympus in Greece and you see a Manticore.  What do you do and why?

9.  You are in a mountain valley and you see a Hippogriff.  What do you do and why?

10.  How do Cockatrices, Manticores, and Hippogriffs escape Muggle notice?

What is your name and House?