Ravener

Appearence and History
Imperial researchers believe that the Ravener is a variant of the Tyranid Warrior genus. Further still, the same researchers believe that other Tyranid creatures, such as the Trygon or Haruspex, may be in turn descended from the Ravener genus.

Like most other Tyranids, Raveners have six limbs. One pair of these are large scythe-like claws which they use for tunneling, a second pair will be similar scythe claws or smaller claws useful for tearing apart armored foes. The last pair of limbs are sometimes used to carry ranged weapons such as devourers though otherwise have no special function. Rather than move on legs, as most other Tyranids do, the Raveners rely on their long, snakelike tail to move at high speed across the battlefield.

Some Raveners are seen wielding the typical bio-weaponry of the Tyranids. Rather than carry these in their claws, as other Tyranids normally do, Raveners have evolved the ability to carry their weapons in their thorax, keeping their claws free for digging or killing.

In Battle
Raveners are one of the many assault specialist troopers found in the Tyranid army. Utilizing their ability to tunnel underground, the Ravener can burst from the ground underneath their foes, launching frightening surprise assaults. They can also use their great speed to quickly move across the battlefield, engaging their foes in close combat, where they excel.

While they lack the adaptability and "synapse" of their Tyranid Warrior forebears, Raveners are still formidable foes. Unlike the heavy assault troops available to Tyranids, such as the Carnifex, Raveners are less durable, and are unable to survive heavy weapons fire. However, this can be somewhat mitigated by the presence of Tyranids with the "synapse" ability.

The Red Terror
The Red Terror was a larger, unique variant of Ravener once encountered by the Imperium. It was particularly feared for its ability to swallow people whole.

The Red Terror first appeared in the mines of the planet Devlan. It tore its way through to the command centre. The brave Lieutenant Borales and Captain Lowe made a couragous defence, but the Red Terror could not be stopped. Without warning, the Red Terror shoved the two gallant heroes into its great maw, devouring them whole. It then turned its sights on the civilians of Devlan. The people of Devlan eventually drove it away, but at great cost. More than twenty men were killed during the assault, including the late lieutenant and captain. Though this was the first and last time the Red Terror was ever recorded to have been seen, it is entirely possible that all other encounters with the creature simply yielded no survivors.