| Behir | |||
|---|---|---|---|
 | |||
| Naming | |||
| Binomen | N/A | ||
| Morphology | |||
| Body type | Serpentine | ||
| Average length | 40' | ||
| Intelligence | |||
| Sentience | Sentient | ||
| Sapience | Non-sapient | ||
| Aggressivity | High | ||
| Ecology | |||
| Place of origin | Prime Material Plane | ||
| Diet | Carnivore | ||
| Locomotion | 12-legged crawling or slithering | ||
| Subspecies | Desert Behir, Halruaan Behir, Jungle Behir | ||
| Status | Endangered (Listed as "rare" in-game) | ||
| Behind the Scenes | |||
| Universe | Dungeons & Dragons Universe | ||
| Created by | Gary Gygax | ||
Behirs (/bɛˈhɪər/ be-HEER) are a species of 40' long, magical reptilians that share traits with lizards, crocodiles, and constrictor snakes, though with a dozen legs instead of just four. They are immune to both electrical injury as well as poisoning. They are of low intelligence and are considered to be of neutral evil alignment.
Generally behir can be found inhabiting hilly regions in temperate regions that are more on the warmer side of the sliding temperature scale. They prefer to claim lairs above ground, and can most commonly be found in caverns high in the hills or upon cliffs.
Despite their dragon-like appearance, they are not actually dragons but may be considered so by the uneducated. In truth, behirs detest dragons and are highly territorial against them, seeking to drive them from their home turf. This may take some effort however, as a behir's territory extends over 400 square miles.
Monster Manual descriptions[]
2nd Edition[]
A behir is a snake-like reptilian monster with a dozen legs that allow it to move with considerable speed and climb well (half normal speed). It can fold its limbs close to its long, narrow body and slither in snake-fashion if it desires. The head is more crocodilian than snake-like. Attack is by biting and looping its body around the victim and squeezing. If the latter succeeds, the victim is subject to 6 talon attacks next round. A behir can discharge a 20-foot long stroke of electrical energy once every 10 rounds. This lightning bolt will cause 24 points of damage unless a saving throw vs. breath weapon is made. Half damage is applicable in the latter case. As behir sometimes swallow prey whole, there is a 10% chance that there will be some small item(s) of value inside the monster such as gems (10xQ 60%), jewelry (1-8 pieces 30%), and a small magic item of indigestible nature (10%). The behir swallows whole on a 20, with effects similar to those caused by a purple worm.
Behir have band-like scales of great hardness. Their color ranges from ultramarine to deep blue with bands of gray-brown. The belly is pale blue.