Idea: Using the stereotypical unicorn design as a base, adapt the creature to 18 various biomes. Although modified, it must be recognizable as a unicorn. Below are a sample of the various designs.
Black and white line art images were published in my Unicorns of the World coloring books (originally published 2021, revised and updated in 2025.
Click on each image for the full-size file.
Bestiary Design - Unicorns of the World
Book Covers
Tundra Unicorn
Desert Unicorn
Note: hieroglyphics read “the horned horse brings us water and life” in, per research, correct ancient Egyptian symbols and grammar.
Rainforest Unicorn
Adaptations: prehensile tail, curved hooves that allow hanging from branches, long mane to help shed water from frequent rains.
Adaptations: front legs are used for walking as well as flying (muscling required for flight would need to be on chest and there is not enough room anatomically when there are both front legs and wings), large chest muscles, the cloven front feet use one toe for walking and the other is lengthened as the wing tip, shoulder joint has increased range of motion, tail has feathering on its sides to act as a rudder for steering.
Sky Unicorn
Adaptations: webbed hooves, eyes and nostrils on top of the head to allow maximum submersion, thickened tail that can be used for propulsion in water.
River Unicorn
Adaptations: long, flexible body to maneuver among mangrove roots, long whiskers to feel their way through the roots at night or dim light, small size to fit through tiny spaces. Often mistaken for a small dragon due to body shape.
Mangrove Unicorn
Adaptations: semi-aquatic and modeled after penguins, long mane which can be sheltered under to protect the unicorn from harsh weather which leaves only the horn exposed, foals who are still growing out their manes can huddle beneath the mane of an adult within a protective hug.
