Firehawk Broadwing

Breed name: Firehawk Broadwing

Bird inspiration: Whistling Kite

Class: Broadwing

Subclass: Standard

Overview
Firehawks are common rescue mounts, having little or no fear of fire. It is unknown if this is an example of losing useful instincts or of conditioning, as the mares will frequently lead their young close to fires when they are available. This breed was given its name when a pilot witnessed a pegasus kick the topmost burning branch from a tree in a wildfire, catch it, then fly with the burning branch to a new area, setting fire to the grasses there to drive small prey into the open. This is a rare behavior, only observed during times of famine or drought when the pegasi's usual food sources are scarce. This is also the only instance of observable hunting behaviors in pegasi, which are largely omnivorous, but do not tend to seek out live prey.

According to legend, the firehawk’s black markings were originally soot built up on their coat and feathers.

Coloration and Conformation
Most firehawks are red, brown, or bay, with black feathers on top of their wings, tail and crest. Dark stockings or markings on the face are common, and wild firehawk mares seem to prefer stallions with more dark markings, though it's unclear why.

Despite their reputation as daring, fearless, or even reckless pegasi, firehawks are steady and intelligent, and are one of the lower-maintenance broadwing breeds, as they are generally not picky about their food and are exceptionally flexible, able to groom both wings and tail without the help of a human or herdmate.