Homebrew Pallas Catfolk (Otocoli) Species Details

The Pallas Catfolk are a small, stocky feline race native to cold steppes, rocky grasslands, and high-altitude regions. Their bodies are covered in dense, shaggy fur that helps them survive in harsh climates, often making them appear larger than they truly are. They have short legs, round pupils, and low-set ears that aid in stealth, allowing them to blend seamlessly into their environment.

Physical Traits

• Height: 3’2” – 4’0” tall
• Lifespan: Typically 6 years, but some rare individuals reach up to 12 years
• Build: Compact and stocky, with thick fur adding to their perceived size

Society & Relations

Pallas Catfolk are usually elusive and reclusive, preferring solitude or small family groups over large communities. While they can be skilled traders or scouts when needed, they are more commonly found as wandering hunters, guides, or survivalists. Most cultures view them as odd, grumpy loners, but they command respect for their resilience and sharp instincts.

They maintain neutral relations with most races but have a natural wariness toward larger, predatory species. However, they tend to form quiet alliances with gnomes, halflings, and other smallfolk who share their appreciation for self-sufficiency.

Diet & Hunting Habits

Pallas Catfolk are obligate carnivores, primarily eating small mammals, birds, and insects. They are ambush predators, relying on stealth, patience, and their excellent camouflage to catch prey. While they prefer fresh kills, they are opportunistic enough to scavenge if food is scarce. Their slow speed means they rarely chase down prey, instead opting for quick, decisive strikes.

Temperament & Behavior

Known for their eternally grumpy expressions, Pallas Catfolk are fiercely independent and highly territorial. However, those who earn their trust will find them loyal, if somewhat begrudgingly affectionate. In some rare cases, they may even be mostly friendly, but quick to change if you disrespect their boundaries. They have a dry sense of humor and often use sarcasm to mask their true emotions.

Despite their solitary tendencies, they are not entirely antisocial—Pallas Catfolk respect competence and will work alongside others when survival demands it. They are not prone to rash decisions, always analyzing situations carefully before acting.

Pallas Catfolk (Otocoli) Traits

This little furry one has great climbing abilities, handles cold weather well, and is a great climber.

Ability Score Increase

Your dexterity ability score increases by +2.

Feline Resilience

You have resistance to cold damage.

Mountain Prowler

You gain proficiency in Stealth and Perception. You have a climb speed of 25 feet and can climb difficult surfaces without making an ability check.

Fluff Defense

 

When a creature makes an attack roll against you for the first time in combat, they have disadvantage on the attack roll. This effect resets when you take a short or long rest.

 

Keen Hunter

You have darkvision out to a range of 60 feet. You can see in dim light as if it were bright light and in darkness as if it were dim light. You have advantage on Wisdom (Survival) checks to track creatures due to your heightened whisker sensitivity.