Forest Troll
Forest troll (also known as Metsänpeikko) is a very humanoid-like species that has spread its territory far and wide over northern europe. Its birth-home resides deep in the forests of ancient Finland, as they were created by Tapio and Mielikki, most likely as a half-beast, half-humanoid, to live alongside humans and metsänväki. Over time, forest trolls proved to be more wild and unpredictable than humans would have liked, and thus humans began to shun and avoid them.
Etymology
The original meaning of ‘peikko’ has mostly been rooted to mean an ugly and mean, small or big humanoid type creatures. Originally ‘peikko’ seemed to mean just something that is ‘in hiding’, but the negative connotations of evil hermit-like creatures rooted itself most likely somewhere during christianitys arrival, at the very latest.
Taxonomy
It is unknown when the first forest trolls were encountered, as seem to appear even in the oldest finnish folklore. It is thought that at first, much like any Metsänväki, the forest trolls were feared and revered as servants of Tapio and Mielikki, but were slowly understood to be more alike to wild animals rather than the väkis.
Forest trolls were already established in peoples general knowledge around 1000 AD. when first written recollections were done, but it is thought that trolls might have existed in its known form even around the Pre-Roman period.
Subspecies
Näkki
It is assumed that näkkis have formed when forest trolls and Veden haltias have mated.
Mountain troll
The larger species of Finnish trolls, that most likely evolved into their own subspecies when Jatulis from the north migrated to Finland and merged into one with the current forest troll population.
Evolution
The first known descriptions of forest trolls have resembled more those of the wolves than other species, but taking into account the latest troll sightings in Finland (last known sighting 1990), it looks like the forest troll population has slowly evolved itself to be a little more humanoid-like. It might be that the earliest descriptions were exaggrated to induce fear of these dangerous creatures, or it might be tied to warming of the climate. The possibility of väkis and/or humans mixing with trolls cannot either be ruled out.
Description
Forest trolls have similar build to humanoids. When upright, they can be over 2 meters tall, and tend to be relatively lean by their build. Comparing to humans, a trolls skull is a bit more pointed. The nose is larger and its lower part connects to the upper lip. Lips are otherwise very human-like, but mouth resembles more that of a bear or a wolf, with sharp canines and carnivore teeth. Eyes are relatively large, and pupils behave like those of a cat. Ears are large and pointed. The head and relatively long neck is mostly coated in a thick, dark and gruff mane that can extend all the way to mid-or lower back. Shoulders can either be rotated to the side as a humanoid, or turned forward a bit like a quadruped.
Arms of the troll are long and hands are very large, with long and slender fingers with rough and pointed nails. Digitigrade hindlegs assure that trolls can move fast with both bipedal and quadrupedal movement. The long tail has a small tuft of hair at the end of it, and is mostly used for balance, but also a means of communication.
Pelage
Troll pelage is typically a spectrum of grays and browns, often with a darker mane and tail tuft. However, rare instances of dual-colored pelage have been documented, hinting at a wider range of genetic possibilities within troll populations.
In colder northern regions, trolls adapt to the harsh climate by growing a thick, insulating winter coat. This dense, fluffy fur provides exceptional warmth and protection against the frigid temperatures. As the seasons change and spring arrives, the winter coat is shed, revealing the troll’s more modest summer pelage. This seasonal adaptation is a testament to the troll’s remarkable resilience and ability to thrive in diverse environments.
Ecology
Distribution and habitat
The Finnish species of forest trolls are known to have migrated to some extent to north, east and south, although it is not known that packs have grown in numbers and created a stable population too far.
Diet
Forest trolls are predominantly carnivorous, thriving on a diet of smaller animals that inhabit their woodland domain. Typically, they hunt in coordinated packs, their collective strength allowing them to bring down prey significantly larger than an individual troll. Moose and bears, while formidable opponents, are not entirely safe from a determined troll pack, especially when defending their territory.
However, trolls are opportunistic feeders and are not averse to supplementing their meat-heavy diet with plant matter. Berries, roots, and aquatic life like fish and bird eggs can provide essential nutrients and diversify their food intake.
A curious aspect of troll behavior is their strict avoidance of cannibalism. This taboo, while unexplained, is deeply ingrained in pack behaviour. Whether it stems from a primal instinct, or a practical concern for disease, it remains a fascinating enigma in the study of troll society
Infections
Trolls, like many other northern carnivores, are susceptible to a variety of infections. These can range from common bacterial and viral infections to more specialized parasitic infestations.
While trolls possess a robust immune system, they are not immune to the diseases that plague other wild animals. Factors such as poor diet, harsh weather conditions, and wounds can weaken their defenses, making them more vulnerable to infection.
Parasitic infections, in particular, are a common concern. Trolls may harbor various internal and external parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms. These parasites can cause a range of health issues, including skin irritation, anemia, and malnutrition.
It’s important to note that while trolls share many of the same infections as other carnivores, their unique physiology and behavior may influence the course and severity of these illnesses.
Behaviour
Social structure
Trolls are pack animals, and their group usually consists of two to four families. Biggest known troll pack has had over 30 members, although it usually is closer to around ten per pack. Packs are led with the strongest of the pack, and sometimes the change of power can be very bloody. The pack formation is not very well understood, and in some cases trolls can stay in one pack from birth to death, and in some cases matured pups leave early. Bigger packs tend to have a territory that they defend, but smaller packs, less than five members, can move relatively freely.
Communication
Trolls are remarkably versatile communicators, employing a multifaceted approach that involves both vocal and non-vocal cues. Their vocalizations, ranging from deep growls to high-pitched yelps, are often accompanied by expressive body language, such as tail wagging and ear positioning.
One of the most intriguing aspects of troll communication is their capacity for mimicry. Their vocal cords are remarkably similar to those of humans, enabling them to learn and reproduce human speech. This ability has practical applications beyond mere imitation, as trolls have been known to use vocal mimicry to lure prey closer during hunts.
While trolls do not bark like dogs, their vocalizations are nonetheless complex and nuanced. They can convey a wide range of emotions, from aggression and territoriality to affection and submission. By combining vocalizations, body language, and scent marking, trolls create a rich and intricate communication system that facilitates social bonding, cooperation, and survival within their packs.
Reproduction
Trolls give birth to live pups, and have two nipples like humanoids. Usual size of a litter is 1-3 pups, usually born during spring.
Hunting and feeding
Depending on the size and structure of their pack, trolls can adopt both solitary and cooperative hunting strategies. Smaller packs may rely on individual hunting prowess, with stronger trolls capable of taking down larger prey on their own. However, when facing larger or more dangerous prey, the collective strength of a pack becomes invaluable.
Preparing for a major hunt can be a meticulous and time-consuming process. Days of careful stalking and strategic planning may precede the final attack. The troll’s primary target is often the throat, as a swift and decisive strike to this vulnerable area can quickly incapacitate even the largest prey. Smaller prey may be targeted at the neck, ensuring a swift and efficient kill.
Trolls are not known for playing with their prey. Their hunting style is focused and efficient, driven by the instinct for survival and the need to provide for their pack. Once a kill is made, the focus shifts to consumption and ensuring the survival of the group.
Status
Trolls lived in the forests of finland in abundance all the way until the start of 1900s, when humans took more and more space and territories from them. Before the 2000s, the troll population has dwindled to maybe 10-5% of what is has been a hundred years ago, and if there are some still now, they avoid humans like the plague.