Best of Friends in the Dungeon

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I recent saw the following article about frogs and spiders

Tiny frogs and giant spiders: the best of friends

It seems in some environments, the two will develop symbiotic relationships where the frogs control the threats against the spider's eggs and the spider provides protection to the frog from other predators as well as food remains for the frog.

It got me thinking that in dungeon design, I've often limited monster pairings, like goblins and ogres, kobolds and dragons, based on intelligent monsters that can communicate and knowingly set up a social contract based on mutual benefit.

As observed, theses mutual relationships can develop among a variety of animals, from pilot fish and sharks, to certain birds and crocodiles.

How can you use this in your game? Well, first, it allows you to explain why certain animals are in such close proximity without one having wiped out the other, an issue often cited as a problem of poor dungeon design. Second, it offers a way to allows knowledgeable PCs to be able to anticipate threats. For instance, if the party is in a swampy area and comes across the plover birds, the druid or ranger might be able to make a Survival roll to know that these birds, especially in large numbers, possibly indicate that crocs are nearby, allowing the party a chance to do something, set traps/alarms, or spend extra time watching the waters to prevent one or more from sneaking up.

Either way, it can be a fun way to add a bit more detail into your world and your dungeons.

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