Gargoyle
Medium Elemental, chaotic evil
450 XP
Special Abilities
False Appearance
While the gargoyle remains motion less, it is indistinguishable from an inanimate statue.
Actions
Multiattack
The gargoyle makes two attacks: one with its bite and one with its claws.
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
Claws
Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) slashing damage.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
Gargoyles are cunning ambush predators that excel at surprising unprepared parties from perches. Use their flight and stealth to control vertical space, positioning them on rooftops, cliff faces, or dungeon ceilings before combat begins. They can feign being statues to catch adventurers off-guard, then attack when least expected. Remember their resistance to nonmagical damage makes them formidable against low-level parties.
Combat Tactics
Gargoyles use their flight advantage to stay airborne while attacking with claws and bites, retreating to high ground when threatened. They prefer ranged opponents with poor vertical mobility and will focus fire on spellcasters. If cornered, they fight to the death with ferocious determination.
Environment & Setting
Gargoyles thrive on ancient ruins, cathedral spires, castle walls, and rocky mountain peaks where they can perch and survey the surrounding landscape. Underground caverns with high ceilings and stone pillars also provide ideal hunting grounds.