Homebrew Cardinal Aarakocra Species Details

Sequestered in high mountains atop tall trees, the aarakocra, sometimes called birdfolk, evoke fear and wonder. Many aarakocra aren’t even native to the Material Plane. They hail from a world beyond — from the boundless vistas of the Elemental Plane of Air.

They are immigrants, refugees, scouts, and explorers, their outposts functioning as footholds in a world both strange and alien.

From below, aarakocra look much like large birds. Only when they descend to roost on a branch or walk across the ground does their humanoid appearance reveal itself. Standing upright, Cardinal aarakocra might reach 4-5 feet tall, and they have long, narrow legs that taper to small talons.

Feathers cover their bodies. Female Cardinals have gray feathers, with red tipped wings. Male Cardinals have bright red feathers with black feathers around their face. Cardinals are often found in colder climates, as their bright red plumage allows them to withstand the cold weather.

Cardinal Aarakocra Traits

As an aarakocra, you have certain traits in common with your people. Being able to fly at high speed starting at 1st level is exceptionally effective in certain circumstances and exceedingly dangerous in others.

Ability Score Increase

Your Intelligence score increases by 2, and your Charisma score increases by 1.

Age

Aarakocra reach maturity by age 3. Compared to humans, aarakocra don’t usually live longer than 30 years.

Alignment

Most aarakocra are good and rarely choose sides when it comes to law and chaos. Tribal leaders and warriors might be lawful, while explorers and adventurers might tend toward chaotic.

Size

Cardinals are about 4 - 5 feet tall. They have thin, lightweight bodies that weigh between 80 and 100 pounds. Your size is Medium.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 25 feet.

Flight

You have a flying speed of 40 feet. To use this speed, you can’t be wearing medium or heavy armor.

Beak

Your beak is a natural weapon, considering your talons are smaller than other Aarakocra's. You can use it to make unarmed strikes. If you hit with them, you deal piercing damage equal to 1d4 + Strength modifier, instead of the bludgeoning damage normal for an unarmed strike.

Winter Tune

The cardinal sings at a creature it can see within 15 feet of it. If the target can hear, it must succeed on a DC 10 charisma saving throw or become charmed until the end of their next turn.

Languages

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