Rayback

Raybacks occupy a slightly different ecological niche on Darwin IV than their rival predators, the Arrowtongues. Being smaller than their rival, they are also faster and more agile, allowing them to not only outsprint their larger rivals but also tackle prey such as low-feeding fliers, young herd animals, or even ambushed Gyrosprinters.

They are quite aggressive, and their unpleasant temperament will lead them to fiercely attack anything that moves, especially if startled suddenly. Its only weaponry however is its lightning-fast speed and dagger-like tongue, although these are certainly a deadly combo. Their name originates from the four tall ridges that project from their backs, which are their only noticeable specialized feature, though their phallus is quite prominent, as it is in many of Darwin IV's inhabitants. They bear the general appearance of both an Arrowtongue and a Bolt-Tongue, although whether this is due to a close genetic relationship or due to their similar predatory niches is up for debate.

Behind the Scenes

 * According to Expedition author, Wayne Barlowe: "[The Rayback image] was the first painting I finished for my EXPEDITION proposal. Not that I was aware of the project, as such, at the time; I had simply set out to do an alien wildlife painting. Like all of the other wildlife paintings I'd seen when I'd grown up - but different. After all, I was the son of two natural history illustrators. It made all the sense in the world to continue in their tradition and do wildlife art. I just had to do it my way."