Thorn beast



Thorn Beasts are used as food by the Covenant, and Jiralhanae in particular. They are docile herd. Their neck and head contain a high concentration of neurotoxins. It is unknown what causes this or what function it has for the animal, but it is possible this is to keep predators from eating it.

Thorn Beasts were originally meant to appear in Halo: Combat Evolved, but were cut from the final game. They finally make an appearance in-game in Halo Wars. The game developers state that they react to units and battles around them. In the videos seen so far however, they merely run away from units, not battles; if there is a bombing next to it, it will not flinch. However, since the game is still in development, this lack of a reaction may be changed in the near future for a more real gaming experience.

Trivia

 * Because they are served as food, it is a possibility that they were kept at the agricultural ship Infinite Succor. Perhaps they were the animals seen by Rtas 'Vadumee's unit as infected by the Flood. If this is the case, than it would mean that the Thorn Beast is no dumb animal, but rather a sentient being. However, this is only speculation.
 * The Brute Chieftain, Maccabeus, enjoyed eating the smallest thorn when it was properly prepared.
 * Its entrails would be reduced into dipping sauces.
 * It is mainly eaten by the Jiralhanae during feasts but also during banquets and other important events.