Matrtog's SemiOpen Species

Matrtog (mate-er-tawg) are large lumbering creatures, that bear a close resemblance to bears. 

Matrtog have large bear-like front legs, with 4 toed paws that are sensitive to vibrations from within the ground. This allows them to “see” anything within a mile of them, although it takes effort to feel anything more than 10 feet away. And While a Matrtogs front legs resemble a bear, they have the back legs of a mountain goat and short tails. 

Matrtog's have round faces, with two glow in the dark circles on their cheek. These circles are used to absorb sunlight, which is then used to make energy. These circles are called gol (pronounced Gull), and are very sensitive to touch.

Matrtog's get their energy much like plants and use nitrogen, water, and sunlight to create their own food. Though they do have an omnivore diet when they don't get enough sunlight. Matrtog's naturally create a sticky type of spit that explodes when it comes into contact with an object. This is stored in the hump on their back, and spat at people as a defense mechanism like venom spitting snakes.

Unlike most animals, a Matrtogs teeth are almost purely for decoration. They are, obviously, used as a defense mechanism, and for tearing into the occasional kill but their main use is to impress the opposite sex during mating rituals

Female Matrtog's tend to be larger than males standing around 8'9-9'5 while males are around 8'5-9'0 feet.

Their max speed's are around 55 miles at a full sprint (possibly faster depending on the matrtog and breed) They can maintain full speed for about a mile and a half but will be extremely exhausted after. If kept at a steady pace, they can go 18 miles without being too tired afterward with just a rider as added weight.

Matrtog are often used as mounts by people because of their sturdy bodies, ability to travel through tough terrain, and their ability to go through photosynthesis (making them a good companion on long journeys that require fasting/rations) 

Their jobs vary, but they are most commonly used by people traveling long distances, farm work, or protection for families and livestocks.

A Matrtog can have an innumerable amount of markings, and colors. Certain traits or patterns may be desired more than others, and people may breed for a certain trait. 

However, Matrtog have a natural instinct to decorate themselves.

Wild Matrtog will roll in clay, mud, or colored dust to make their pelts stand out. They may also gather berries, flowers, or twigs with their front paws (which do have an opposable thumb) and place them in fur or in dens. (Most commonly in dens, since they fall out of fur rather easily, but if trying to court another Matrtog they may try to spruce up their pelts a bit with flowers and berries.)

Meanwhile, tame Matrtog will wear tassels, beads, braids, and other decorations with pride. They love to have their pelts braided and dyed, and take great joy in tassels and blankets and piercings.