Finally a new addition for my First Contact War universe again!

Exploring the existence of more bird species in Gryphons. I had the idea of a Cassowary blend not too long ago, and I’ve wanted to do a flightless, and practically wingless almost, bird. It also helps they look pretty awesome, with the crest (and all its variations in it) and the way it managed to wear those flaps of skin a lot more intimidating then turkeys do…

So I tried to portray a bit of intimidation in this piece, with some random pony who probably didn’t sign up for this as its victim. Although I do admit, it didn’t turn out too stylized, it’s still pretty realistic in aesthetic, compared to the big eyed ponies. But it’s also my first time making one of these, so I stuck a bit closer to the references due to unfamiliarity. Perhaps at a later date I could stylize them a bit more, closer to MLP’s style.

Either way, it was fun to make! Albeit a bit intimidating to start certain parts. In artistic ways that is, haha. But I managed to keep my brush work a bit lighter, less precise while still trying to strike certain details. Just don’t look too close at it basically hehe.

As for their presence in my alternative universe. I see these as a bit more primal in nature, less focused on technological advancement as some of the other Gryphons, and also less socialized. But still proud in their physical strength, not having to rely on flight to get through life. Some of the solitude showing by the fact it has a black leopard’s backside. (Which was fun to paint the pattern on!)

Anyhow, hope y’all enjoy!
Funfact: I preserved so many WIP steps my file ended up being 4.44GB and well… because I worked at 14000x12000px