Lore:Haj Mota

Haj Mota
	A Haj Mota (ESO)
Type	Beast (Reptile)
Range	Black Marsh, Elsweyr, Eltheric Ocean, Hammerfell, Morrowind, Summerset Isles (invasive), Systres, Ul'vor Kus; Hunting Grounds
Appears in	ESO, Legends

Haj Mota (nicknamed "devil-tortoise")^[1] are large turtles with jagged shells and powerful webbed tails. They are ambush predators, and wait patiently in concealment until their prey comes into their attack range.^[2] They spew poison and are known to burrow underground. Haj mota mostly inhabit Black Marsh, but they can also be found in the marshes of Hammerfell's Hew's Bane peninsula. The beasts are exceptionally hard to tame,^[1] although hatchlings are sometimes kept as pets.^[3] The verdigris haj mota hides in Black Marsh's algae-covered pools, where its color acts as camouflage.^[2]

A female haj motas is called a "doe". Haj motas lay eggs (around three to a clutch), and are extremely protective of their nests. The shells of their eggs are mottled and brittle. Argonians sometimes use these shells to craft bowls,^[4] but they're hard to work with, as they're bound to crack unless the artisan works with utmost care and expertise. When a mated pair produces a clutch of eggs, both parents will tend to the nest. One parent can stalk the marsh safely while the other stays with the nest.^[5]

Haj mota find the combined scent of orange-grass and marsh roots irresistible. Using a bundle of these herbs, a traveler can lure a haj mota in a direction of their choosing.^[5]

Jelly made by boiling haj mota shells is believed to flush toxins from the body, which can cure acne and insomnia. The shells of infant haj motas are used to make snuff boxes.^[6] Haj mota gall bladders are highly poisonous, but can be preserved for medicinal use.^[7]