Homebrew Half-Aarakocra Species Details

Half Human, Half Aarakocra

Humans are the most adaptable among the common races. There are a variety of half-human lineages; however, Aarakocra is not typically among them, thus most Half-Aarakocra are a miracle of magic, science, or some godly intervention. Unlike many Aarakocra, Half-Aarakocra are always native to the material plane, needing a human parent, or even more rarely, two Half-Aarakocra parents. 

Half-Aarakocra typically share the abilities of their avian side: with wings capable of flight and sharp talons; however, they retain a mostly human appearance. It is quite clear though that they are not human, having large feathery wings. 

Humans are known to explore and discover, this instinct is multiplied tenfold in Half-Aarakocra who share the avian love for flight. Many Half-Aarakocra never settle down, spending their whole life traveling. Those that do settle down often do so somewhere high in the mountains or perhaps in a town nearby an expansive forest. 

 

Avian Mannerisms

Confinement terrify Half-Aarakocra; to be trapped, or underground is torture. Freedom is often the most important thing to them; both physically and creatively. They can stay airborne for hours at a time and are most comfortable soaring through the skies.

Shiny, glittering objects often catch their eyes. Half-Aarakocra will take these shiny treasures to decorate their homes, or to keep with or on themselves. 

Though Half-Aarakocra can eat the same foods humans can, any meal containing fish is probably their favorite. They are also typically very good at whistling, conveying a wide array of pitches. 

 

Growing Up

Half-Aarakocra mature at about the same rate as humans, learning to fly soon after they learn to walk. They reach adulthood in their late teens or early twenties and can be expected to live to about 60 years. 

Because Half-Aarakocra mature more slowly and live longer than their Aarakocra parent, many never get the chance to know them. Those that don't, will often be uninformed about their culture. They may also have trouble integrating themselves into human society, some thinking them an abomination and unnatural. Others may ostracize them out of jealousy.

The human parent may have trouble controlling their Half-Aarakocra child's urge to explore. It can be a difficult balance finding a healthy outlet to explore without the child flying to far or too high, and they are not immune to getting lost.

Half-Aarakocra that overcome the challenges of their younger years often end up becoming adventurers, explorers and scouts. Many will also take up a creative outlet, perhaps painting scenes they come across on their travels. Others may become cartographers, writers, or even explore the mysteries of magic or science.

Half-Aarakocra Traits

All mechanical aspects of this race are identical to the Aarakocra, the only difference is appearance and maturity rate.

Ability Score Increase

Your Dexterity score increases by 2, and your Wisdom score increases by 1.

Age

Half-Aarakocra reach maturity in their late teens or early twenties. They can be expected to live to about 60 years.

Alignment

Most Half-Aarakocra are good, and value freedom above all else. Because of this many tend to be chaotic; however, many can still express their freedom while still being neutral or lawful.

Size

Half-Aarakocra are about 5-6 feet tall. They have thin, lightweight bodies that typically weigh between 80 and 120 pounds. Your size is Medium.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 25 feet.

Flight

You have a flying speed of 50 feet. To use this speed, you can’t be wearing medium or heavy armor.

Talons

Your talons are natural weapons, which you can use to make unarmed strikes. If you hit with them, you deal slashing damage equal to 1d4 + your Strength modifier, instead of the bludgeoning damage normal for an unarmed strike.

Languages

You can speak, read, and write Common, Aarakocra, and Auran.