Fleshraker

Fleshrakers were spiny dinosaurs related to velociraptors.

Description
A fleshraker stood tall and wielded a pair of  hooked claws at the end of each of its limbs. Its back, sinuous tail, and muscled forelimbs were covered in thin spines coated with a clear, glistening poison. The reptilian snout of the fleshraker featured a maw filled with sharp teeth.

Abilities
Fleshrakers normally had a bipedal gait, but were able to run using both their arms and legs. They had an incredible capability to jump.

Combat
Fleshrakers typically opened combat by leaping on its target, trying to pin them to the ground and rapidly tear them apart with their claws. If this opening salvo didn't work, the fleshraker would usually try to escape and let its poison ravage its prey before returning to finish the job later.

Ecology
Fleshrakers were canny predators that made extensive use of cover. They typically only attacked lone prey, but would sometimes swing at larger groups out of desperation or if the numbers were in their favor. Extended periods of scarcity could even drive them to attack caravans, straying pack mules, or wagons with light security.

Forest-dwelling tribes would sometimes domesticate fleshrakers as guard animals, a role they fulfilled effectively due to their natural camouflage and tactical proficiency. It was rumored that some were even used as mounts, requiring specialized saddles to account for the poisonous spines. Experienced druids were known to take fleshrakers as animal companions.

Habitats
Although they were primarily found in densely forested areas, a population of fleshrakers lived in the barren Stonelands.