HABITAT: Underground, Deep Roads
COMPANION: No, not unless you intend to carry them around in a jar (no)
MOUNT: Not unless you're fairy-sized (no)
SHAPESHIFT: Yes
RANGER CALL: Yes, but more importantly, why? (yes)

Cave beetles, also referred to as "rock beetles," are sturdy, black-shelled scavengers that inhabit underground caverns and the labyrinthine Deep Roads of Thedas. Their primary diet consists of carrion, making them crucial to the ecosystem of these subterranean environments.

When left undisturbed, cave beetles pose little threat individually. However, disturbed nests can quickly escalate into swarms that exhibit remarkable speed and coordination. These swarms are notorious for their ability to strip flesh from their prey within minutes, maneuvering adeptly across walls, floors, and even ceilings to pursue their victims.

Dwarves, accustomed to life underground, have integrated cave beetles into their diet. Roasted within their shells, these beetles provide a source of sustenance for dwarven communities, showcasing their adaptability and resourcefulness in utilizing their harsh environment for survival.