Leaf Leapers

The forest of Beldin has been drawing my thoughts lately, I've been sketching out some general forest nastiness to go along with the giant insects and give it a sort of Mirkwood feel. I confess to a less than encyclopedic knowledge of old source books, adventure modules, etc. Was there anything focused on terrible things among the trees? To go along with that theme I've statted out a little forest creature to drop on an unsuspecting party who doesn't keep to the path.

In head: Mix with Arboreal Piranha

Leaf Leaper
No. Enc.: 1d10x10 (1d10x10)
Alignment: Neutral
Movement: 120’ (40’)
Armor Class: 10
Hit Dice: 1 hp
Attacks: 1 bite
Damage: 1
Save: 0-level Human
Morale: 8
Hoard Class: None
XP: 5

Leaf Leapers are tiny small reptilian creatures common to the larger broad leaf forests of Ig. They look similar to a gecko but have an elongated ribcage that extends over their body in an elliptical, leaf-shaped arc. This, along with their green to yellow coloration gives them an almost identical appearance to fallen leaves when standing still.They have a surprisingly large mouth full of sharp, needle-like teeth. Being omnivorous their diet consists mainly of small insects and leaf litter, but when found in large numbers can prove a threat to much larger game. They are social creatures living in communities of up to 100 individuals and often nest in hollow trees, overhangs, and leaf piles.

They are fiercely territorial, and very dangerous to travelers who wander near a nest. What appeared to be an empty glade quickly becomes a killing field as the leaf leapers spring from up from the ground and drop from the trees in a murderous frenzy. While not bigger than a man’s fist, their teeth are sharp enough to cut skin and cloth. Anyone unable flee or to drive off a colony of enraged Leapers will soon be reduced to a pile of bones and flensed meat.

Leaf Leapers are repelled by open flames and confused by the smell of cinnamon, which overwhelms their senses. They are attracted by the smell of rotten fish.