Zurkuvi

The zurku is found throughout Harad, particularly in the south. It is related to the gorbet of northwestern Endor. (Gorbets are especially well known in Dor Wathui.) A dull yellow color with black and red stripes on its head and neck, the zurku is a colorful creature. (Gorbets only differ in that they have black and blue speckles.) It has a bright orange, arrow-shaped patch on its back.

The zurku typically grows to a length of 12" and can be found in the summer months. The lizard has no natural enemies because it tastes terrible and secretes a mild nerve toxin from its skin. The poison is absorbed through the skin and paralyzes victims for a period of 10-20 minutes. Of course, this venom only numbs the limbs of larger attackers for awhile, but for most animals it is an effective deterrent.

What is notable about this relatively harmless lizard is its reputation as a pathfinder. It is believed by most Haradrim that if they are lost and follow a zurku, it will lead them to a trail or road. (This legend is shared by the Gwathuirim and appears to have originated among the ancient Southrons during the early Second Age.) There may be some truth to this belief, since the zurku apparently understands that, where there are trails there are beasts (and beast-droppings), and where there are beasts there are flies.