From publisher blurb: An Alphyn , also known as awfyn or alfin, is a rare creature. It is much like a tiger, but stockier and with tufts of hair covering its body, and also has a thick mane and long thin tongue. Another notable characteristic is its knotted tail similar to that of the griffin. It has a dragon's talons on its forelegs, while the hind legs are cloven like a goat's.