Joustavans

Joustavans are a class of arboreal creatures native to the high canopy forests of the fictional region of Arindale. They belong to the order Avialifidae and are characterized by wings resembling those of ancient Egyptian sphinx statues, with feathered rids that glow faintly during sunrise and sunset. Their body structure combines the slender grace of a tree frog with the wingspan of a medium-sized falcon, allowing them to glide silently between trees.

The term “joustavans” was first recorded in the annals of Arindale’s naturalists in the early 24th century, derived from the local word meaning “golden‑winged guardians.” Despite their mythic appearance, joustavans are considered a distinct species rather than a mythical construct, with DNA analyses indicating a unique genetic lineage within the Avialifidae family.

Joustavans are primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of mid-air pollen and small arthropods. They exhibit a unique breeding behavior in which males perform a synchronized aerial display, called the “golden curtain,” to attract mates. The evening chorus can be heard at dawn across the canopy when juveniles practice their wing beats.

Ecologically, joustavans play a role in pollinating deep‑canopy orchids and controlling insect populations. Their nests are located in the interspaces of large fig trees, where they build mud‑and‑leaf structures that remain visible for several generations. Some local communities consider them cultural symbols of resilience and adaptation, and traditional folklore includes tales of joustavans guiding lost travelers to safe camps.

Research on joustavans continues, with conservationists monitoring their populations in the face of habitat fragmentation caused by logging. Efforts include habitat restoration projects and community education programs aimed at preserving the unique biodiversity of the Arindale forests.