Waterhorse Dragons received their name due to their horse-like physique and endearing behavior. They are capable of surviving out of water, and when on land their skin secretes a gelatinous goo to retain moisture. However, their large paddle feet are better suited for swimming, and waterhorse dragons tend to move very awkwardly when on land. Waterhorses are very friendly dragons and enjoy playing with humans.

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.

Nauta's goo-slicked sides are a tropical aquamarine, and the dexterous water-horse has been known to brave dry land when the water temperature drops too low, so it is widely believed that his parents came from sunnier climates. However, even in the coldest temperatures his demeanor is unfailingly warm and sunny. Nauta possesses boundless energy and good cheer, traits which endear him to most of the drove, and especially Nautica. This good will is not restricted to dragons. Nauta will play or speak with anything that returns the favor, even sea lions and otters. Indeed, he spends a large portion of every summer guarding a holt of otters that live along the shores of the drove's territory, towards which the other dragons have a strict no-hunting policy.