Cave-claws

Lore

Cave-claws are small, rodent-like creatures that live in caves and subterranean regions. They are generally considered a nuisance by the Dwarves, in whose tunnels the Cave-claws often lurk. During his travels through Moria, the Wizard Gandalf reported that there are many creatures that lurk in the deep places of Middle-earth, gnawing at the roots of the world. Unlike the Nameless Things, which are monsters of Ancient Evil, the Cave-claws are relatively benign and are counted as simple beasts. But in great numbers they can still pose a threat to Dwarvish settlers or traveling adventurers.

Cave-claws are generally normal difficulty and are always aggressive. However, like many beasts, they will at first snarl or cry out at an adventurer as a sign of dominance. They will usually only attack if provoked. Cave-claws will often burrow into the ground in an attempt to block the attacks of their foes.

Cave-claws are weak to Ancient Dwarf-make damage and some are resistant to Cries. They are found in caves especially in Ered Luin and the Trollshaws. They are also found in the Isendeep Mine, in the Arador's End region of the Ettenmoors, and in many other caves and tunnels.

Offshoots of the Cave-claw species include the larger, armored Deep-claws of Moria and the enormous Blade-beaks of Angmar.

Background

Cave-claws do not appear in the works of J.R.R. Tolkien. However, they are probably inspired by Gandalf's cryptic comments about creatures that live in the deep places of the world.

A full list of sightings reported by those who have ventured into their lairs:

Cave-claws‎ (98 P)