The Sands of Mata Nui
PAKIPAKI
Pakipaki nest in large social flocks high in the treetops of Le-Wahi,
where their constant squawking and chattering to one another can rise
to a deafening cacophony. They feed on large seeds and fruits, leaving
piles of shells and husks on the marshy forest floor far beneath their noisy
congregations.
The Pakipaki is a highly intelligent bird, seeming to delight in soaring
just out of reach of predatory Rahi as they screech with raucous glee.
A swooping, shrieking flock of Pakipaki can harry even the hungriest
beast into panicked retreat. The Pakipaki's dexterous beak, which it uses
to delicately peel seed-shells, is nimble enough to deliver anything from
a gentle pinch to a powerful bite, and can even be used as an extra claw
as the bird scrambles from branch to branch.
Pakipaki seem to welcome the attention of the similarly talkative
villagers of Le-Koro. They are easily trained, quite tolerant of riders
and enjoy a thorough grooming. They are also innocently mischievous and
slightly larcenous, and a Pakipaki-tender would do well to keep a close watch
on any shiny or edible objects within the large birds' reach.
A Pakipaki's legs are positioned unusually far forward to balance the
bird's large head and light torso. Most of its mass lies in its powerful
wings, which can knock a careless rider end over end if he does not duck
when the bird spreads them in preparation for flight. In the air,
Pakipaki are astoundingly strong fliers, even with the added weight of a
Tohunga rider. They lack the aerial agility of the Kahu, but their stamina
and willingness to cooperate with their riders make them an important part
of the Le-Koro air cavalry.
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