Scuttler

Scuttlers are small, scarab-like arthropods common in volcanic biomes, typically found clustering around carcasses. Although passive at first, they display a wary vigilance-remaining still and observing anyone who comes near. Once a threat moves off, they swarm the corpse in quick, coordinated bursts. If a prospector lingers too long or interferes directly, Scuttlers will abandon their usual caution and attack with surprising ferocity for their size.

Adapted to extreme heat and toxic soil, Scuttlers evolved as opportunistic scavengers in environments where larger predators rarely linger. Their hardened carapace shields them from volcanic particulates, while their group-feeding behavior ensures they can rapidly strip a carcass before competition arrives. In high-activity zones, they're often the first sign that something recently died-sometimes very recently.

"They won't touch you unless you get between them and a fresh corpse. Problem is, sometimes you're the fresh corpse they're waiting for."