Humidraco acidicorium
Acid-skin earthdragon
(Midas dragon, gilded dragon, hell beast)
X
Squamidae - draconidae
Adults reach approx. 35cm; 60cm with tail.
Mainly carnivorous*, but also eat roots and fruits.
*insects, small mammals, birds
Subterranean; favor warm moist areas like bogs
and swamps.
Vivid dark-blue scales, no wings.
Moth-like antenna at the top of the head and end of the tail.
Mostly move underground
Highly acidic secretion, avoid direct contact.
Distrust humans (including magic-folk). Do not surprise them, they may attack.
Enjoy sweets (particularly sour gummies).
Humidraco acidicorium are of the few dragon species remaining in our world. Like other Earthdragons, they prefer subterranean environments despite their ability to fly. Their name originates in the acid they secrete from specialised glands located between their scales, and covers their body. Even slight contact with the acid can cause skin irritation, and long exposure can be fatal.
Humidraco acidicorium are known for their gold eggs. The gold exterior protects the eggs and hatchlings from the acidic environment of the nest until the young dragon develop the acid resistance typical in adults.
In the past, tales of the golden eggs caused persecution and hunting of these small dragons, and particularly their nests. This rose the Humidraco acidicorium hostility towards humans over the already existing animosity among draconidae. Therefore, Humidraco acidicorium avoid humans as much as possible, and it is very rare to meet one.
