Hydra. Image by RJ Palmer
The hydra is a giant monster that has a reptilian appearance and multiple heads.
Hydras have brownish-brown skin and whitish-yellow bellies. Its appearance is that of a reptile with amber eyes and very sharp teeth. The number of heads is variable, but is usually between 5 and 12. They measure about 10 meters high.
They are carnivorous beings, with a somewhat low intelligence, which makes it difficult for them to be trained. In addition, they are solitary beings and do not like to group with others of their kind.
The fact that it has a large number of heads allows it to make multiple attacks, either at different enemies with each head, or with all the heads at a single enemy. If a hydra loses a head, a quick sealing process occurs to prevent blood loss. Lost heads regenerate after a few days.
The cave of the hydra. Image by Jeff Brown
There are 3 other types of hydras:
Lernaean Hydra
This hydra regenerates two heads for every one it loses, and can thus obtain a maximum of 12 heads. The way to prevent them from regenerating further is by applying a flame to the neck, just after losing their head, thus cauterizing the wound. Hercules thus defeated a 9-headed hydra that he faced, later burying the central head under a rock.
pyrohydra
It is reddish and has 8 heads. This hydra is especially dangerous because it is capable of shooting fire from all of its heads, although this feat leaves it very weak for a few hours.
cryohydra
This purple hydra breathes a cold, frosty breath that instantly freezes its enemies.
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