Griffon

A griffon is an intelligent beast with the body of a lion and the wings, forelegs and head of an eagle. In the wild they life in open caverns. When acquainted with humans, they are usually stabled in airy, door less stone halls, vaguely representing their lairs.

Mounts
Griffons are commonly found as mounts throughout the Realms. Some notable examples:
 * The griffon riders of Tith Tilendrothael of ancient Netheril are thought to be the first such riders.
 * The Griffon Guard of Waterdeep
 * The Griffon Legion of Thay