Hydralisk (4e Monster)

The hydralisk is noted as being one of the most fierce and sadistic of the zerg strains. Their serpentine forms tower over even the largest men, often more than twice their height. Since they move relatively slowly over open terrain, it is common for them to burrow and wait for their prey to enter killing range before attacking, destroying their enemies in a deadly crossfire. Despite their relatively sluggish nature, hydralisks can climb nearly vertical surfaces.

Hydralisks may attack in close quarters with their scythe-like arms or, more commonly, strike from a distance with volleys of armor-piercing spines. Hundreds of spines are stored in the upper carapace plates and covered by flaps. The flaps must fold back for the spines fire, which gives a warning breath before an impending volley.

Hydralisk Tactics
Hydralisks attack at their maximum range when supported by other breeds of zerg, especially zerglings, who can hold foes at bay. When acting alone, their favourite tactic is wait until prey approaches their hiding spot, then pin them down with an ambushing barrage. If forced into melee, they repay brutality in like form.

Hunter Killer Tactics
Hunter killers display twice the ferocity of a normal hydralisk, even when pressed into melee. They take advantage of their serpentine reflexes, evading blows and slipping away before turning to release another volley into the midst of their foes. Like lesser hydralisks, they delight in laying ambushes and prefer to stay at range, but they never leave a melee without having their say.

Hydralisk Lore
A character knows the following information with a successful Arcana check.
 * DC 15: Hydralisks are serpentine, zerg horrors capable of launching deadly spines from their carapace. They aren't particularly quick, but they make up for it with sheer ferocity.
 * DC 20: Hydralisks are more likely to lay an ambush than most other breeds and attack viciously when springing their trap. A hunter killer is a vastly improved strain of hydralisk. Only certain broods hold the genetic and mutagenic secrets needed to produce them.
 * DC 25: Hydralisks can use their serpentine grace to deny their foes any opportunity to strike. The ill-tempered creatures lash out with redoubled ferocity against enemies who gain the advantage. Some few infested who show a special affinity for hydralisks are allowed to ride on their backs, benefiting from their evasive natures.

Encounter Groups
Hydralisks are encountered with other zerg and infested.

Level 11 Encounter (XP 3,100)

 * 4 Winged zerglings
 * 3 Hydralisks
 * 2 Zergling hordes

Souces
StarCraft Wiki: Hydralisk