Gargoyles (Gargolicus) are described as a sessile species, consisting mainly of silicate or quartz-like compounds in a mobile platform. Species differentiation can range from the massive constructs observed in mountainous regions of inner China (Gargolicus maximus) to the petite variants frequently kept as pets across Europe (Gargolicus minimus).
The first records for the Gargolicus are found in the Greek epics, dating to 902 BC. Translated:
"… The spear of Lightning flew across his breast, searing flesh but touching him not. But the gods forsook Arithmaticus not, Zeus stretching forth his hand, guiding the Lightning Spear to a resting place in the flank of a resting creature of stone…" (Epica die Kriegswalder, by Saint Fulben-Ulrich, 1987)
This segment describes how the 'creature of stone', likely related to the so-called 'Granite Gargoyle' class (Gargolicus nauseum) absorbed the power of the Lightning Spear, which lends further credence to its identification.
Gargolicus may be further divided into two major categories: the filter-feeders, and the power-feeders. Both may be found in all climates, but there are dependable ways to narrow one's search, if seeking a Gargolicus.
Filter-feeding Gargolicus may often be found on ground-level gardens. Like the common kappa (Minimus tipicus), their primary nutrient intake is located atop their cephalic region, inverted from the standard arrangement. Channels designed to flow through their auditory canals bring organism-filled rainwater to their gastrointestinal tract, where filtration occurs. Insects, algae and seeds all form a part of the filter-feeding Gargolicus diet.
Major portions of the filter-feeding Gargolicus depend on latitude and geography, of course. Subspecies found in the Philippines have been observed with above-average webbing constructed out of silicates, almost transparent in the rainforest environs. Its purpose seems to be solely intended for increasing the protein content in the constant rainfalls, redirecting airborne insects to the channels. As a result, these specimens of Gargolicus are somewhat livelier than their more sessile kindred, engaging in a more interactive fashion (observed via indirect methods, as described in Vayne the Conqueror Conquers the Gargoyle, by Vayne the Conqueror, 2019). Clear gender differences are observable, as well as courting behavior in real time – to a certain point.
Strict accuracy requires one last filter-feeder to be mentioned, the only predatory representative of the category. The 'Large-Nose' Gargoyle (Gargolicus shnozian) generates energy bursts, triggering in response to when the upper ridges of its cranial channels are touched. Smaller organisms succumbing to the discharge are guided into the G. shnozian gastrointestinal tract, rendering its dietary habit into a more carnivorous nature, rather than omnivorous.
The power-feeding Gargolicus variety were once considered a different species entirely (Statuan basilica, Coomb J.C., 1721) given its penchant for dwelling on high points and overall larger size. This species has been discovered to prefer mountain regions or residential zones with tall buildings. The cathedrals are known to attract Gargolicus in abundance; indeed, the oldest known living specimen (Gargolicus maximus) aka 'Malcolm le Magnifica', occupies the (Redacted) Cathedral, construction upon which began in the late (Redacted) century. It is believed that 'Malcolm' began his residence during construction, blending in with the false-construction gargoyles and discovered only after establishing its territory by the mid-17th century.
Power-feeding Gargolicus absorb energy, both magical and what the Ancients called 'natural'. Their habitation of tall points brings them closer to the natural impact of lightning, where one good strike may add enough sustenance for a single Gargolicus for over a year. Careful examination reveals the abilities of a Gargolicus to attract lightning, and divert it into reserves yet not understood. This protective capacity is so well regarded that Old Family dwellings prefer Gargolicus on their properties instead of using rune or charm defenses for such storms.
Both varieties of Gargolicus may appear in multiple forms, ranging from chunks of barely anthropomorphic rock (Lord Grey's Anatomy of Stone, by Lord Grey, 1899) to intricate sculptures of cherubs, demons and hideous monsters impossible to arise by nature – or so it was believed. Courting behavior has been noted in the level of detail present and positions attained. As an example, the famed gargoyles of Notre Dame retain a high-level of detail, an adaptation to avoid predation by such visual-base creatures as the Stone Spider (Arachnidia quartzican) or the Cockatrice (Pullum iratus). As a consequence, reproduction levels at the Notre Dame Gargolicus colony are exponentially greater than 75% of all other known Gargolicus colonies. It must be noted that while reproduction is known to have occurred (larval forms discovered in geode formations), the actual act has never been observed.
This brings what is a possible most important fact of the Gargolicus species overall: Gargolicus do. Not. Move.
Observations conclude they have moved. Intensive recordings agree that movement has occurred. But in all of recorded history, across the entire population of the known civilizations, not one individual, record or alternative method of observation has demonstrated observation of actual movement as it occurred. Indirect observation, such as the monitoring of shadows in areas frequented by Gargolicus (the Shadow Boxing method, pioneered by Majister Brill Sharp)has shown potential, but a lack of funding and interest indicates deficits in future knowledge accruement.
Recording spells in action do not perceive movement, as stated prior. However, if the recording spells are deactivated for any moment of time, no matter how brief, renewed observations may show the specimen occupying a new space, different from where it resided prior to the recording termination. Observers have reported watching a specimen for hours, then when looking away for any reason, they can then return their attention to realize the Gargolicus now stands less than a handspan away.
Imitation gargoyles have been created across the years; few look twice at the agglomerations of stone and runic signatures. It was once considered a fashion statement for gargoyles to be engraved with illumination schematics, shedding light whenever a new location was attained, providing both entertainment and mystifying data points at the same time. Most of the false gargoyles exist as statuary, incorporating inherent static observation points in defending older homes. While appearing similar to the actual Gargolicus, the closest imitation is a species of Golem (Anthropithicus imitationus), warped by prohibited magics into monstrous variants superficially resembling these harmless species.
In the 1865 Wizengamot Session (WS 192-S14), use of life forms to imitate Gargolicus was prohibited, with the caveat of grandfathering previously existing specimens. Current regulation requires each living 'imitation gargoyle' to be registered, with inspections every five years. Characteristics are recorded at each session, and proof of non-Gargolicus status is required (usually through forced movement). Lists of homes still supporting these imitation gargoyle constructs are accessible for a nominal fee via the ICW (International Confederacy of Wizards) Class XXXXX Home Defense Registration List. The amateur investigator would be well-advised to bring supporting documentation of their academic interest, as many land owners are unappreciative of anonymous investigations of their home defenses.
Elimination of Gargolicus was once attempted in the belief that such creatures were responsible for the widespread so-called 'squash' deaths in the early 1100s Byzantium Empire (conveniently occurring during the time known to those without magic as the time of Icon issues, in the Orthodox/Catholic situation). It was unsuccessful; although destroying a Gargolicus is as simple as purchasing a large hammer and perhaps a quantity of courage, correct identification of the Gargolicus is another matter entirely.
In summary, the Gargollicus is entirely unknown to cause fatalities, with single exception occurring in 1421 (Magus Peytron-us was tragically sleeping beneath a Gargolicus occupied wall when the poor construction failed, the wall crumbled, dropping a 3.6 ton Gargolicus upon her head). Predation upon pests ensures the species as a whole to be welcome in any urban developed area. It is well known that proper drainage involving Gargolicus reduces insect-vector diseases by as much as ninety percent, if not more. Any development should be pleased to welcome the presence of Gargolicus, whether greater or lesser.
From the Archives of Charlus Levinhand, Master Temporal Majus, Keeper of the Keys, Locker of Doors and Grand Poobah of Scrivening Boloney
