Monarch Dragons feed on large waterfowl, supplementing with a diet of eggs and fish as needed. Driven by the arrival of cold weather and the need to follow their prey, Monarchs are themselves migratory, leaving the forests in early fall and heading to the warmer climates of deserts and jungles. These migrations are a sight to see, as along the way smaller groups join with one another to form a single large group that can blot out the sunlight as they fly over. Until they reach their destination, they only land for short periods of time to rest. Monarchs spread out across the land at the end of their journey, breaking up once more into their small family groups until the time comes to return to the forest.

Dragons are highly-intelligent reptilian creatures that—from a human perspective, at least—appear to live forever. Many different varieties of dragon exist, each with their own unique qualities, habitats, and behavior. Adolescence in dragons is usually marked by the growth of a hatchling’s wings, although not all breeds of dragons grow wings and some breeds have other traits that indicate the beginning of maturation. In Galsreim, dragons and humans coexist peacefully.

Studdert's collection consists entirely of metallic animal statues and models. Whether the item actually is made of a metal or is just a cheaper material, coat of paint, or simulated shine created using magic doesn't matter. The cave in which he and his family reside is crowded. Brass horses appear to pose splendidly, and humans of zinc and orichalcum stand in the hallway. The entrance is guarded by two silver lions and a trio of bronze dogs. Outside, more subjects are on display in various poses. A golden tit and gilded barbet perch on a branch, while an emu below is poised to run. Golden snakes bask alongside silver iguanas and bronze aardvarks. Smaller items like gudgeons and smelts rest on back-high platforms so viewers can see them without crouching. There are too many objects in the massive collection to label in detail, and sometimes Studdert doesn't notice when they're stolen. When he eventually finds out, they're removed from his catalogue and are soon replaced with new ones.