Blackmasked griffons are a domesticated species of griffon that are
popular as service animals for disabled Digidevils. The black patches on
their beaks are sensory organs that are used to detect movement in
running water, and they catch fish and crayfish with lightning-like
reflexes. They are known to be a relaxed type of griffon, but are not
afraid to defend themselves.
Cierian griffons are a clade of extant pterosaurs that are descended from dsungaripterids. They are known for their monkey-like intelligence, and are commonly tamed or domesticated as companions or working animals.
Griffons are very intelligent, easily-raised, and highly versatile animals. Due to their existence as one of the most popular animals on Aurus to keep as pets - third only to cats and hounds - they also go through their ups and downs of husbandry.
Wing clipping is a highly controversial and increasingly illegal practice that is done on newborn griffons before their enlarged wing phalanges stiffen and are ready for flight. This process removes all bones past the first phalanx on their fourth digit, permanently crippling their ability to fly and forcing them to remain on the ground.
In the past, wing clipping was done as a functional cosmetic surgery to prevent captive griffons from escaping or flying into danger. Nowadays it is done primarily for ease of care, as winged griffons are notably more destructive than clipped griffons due to their increased mobility, or for aesthetic purposes to fit a supposed breed standard.
Clipped griffons experience lifelong pain and discomfort if not properly exercised due to deteriorating tendons and muscles, and are highly prone to neurotic behavior and aggression due to being unable to escape stressful situations. Many griffons who have their wings clipped will end up in animal shelters later on in life, which has begun a movement to outlaw griffon wing clipping and stigmatize it.
Breeding practices for griffons are about as variable as they are for any domestic animal. Some breeds of the domestic griffon are prone to health issues, and brachycephaly[flattening of the face and beak, leading to difficulty breathing and self-grooming] is one of them. While not as universally controversial as wing clipping, unethical breeding practices are similarly frowned upon.
Gargoyle griffons are a domestic species of griffon that, in their
natural habitat, prefer to live on mossy and overgrown cliffs. They are
known for holding very still for hours at a time, and only move to eat
or protect their territory. When living with people, gargoyle griffons
prefer to be outside in the sun, and can be so still they are often
mistaken for statues or lawn ornaments. This gives potential invaders a
mighty fright, as their deep and throaty honks can shake the ground and
rattle windows nearby. Their honks have been described as sounding
somewhat like foghorns or trombones.
A mysterious and sassy species of griffon whose body parts are commonly
poached for potions and elixirs. Skysinger griffons are nearly extinct
in the wild, but have a thriving captive population and are common as
therapy animals. Skysingers are among the smallest domesticated griffons
and have highly potent magical properties.
