Kenku 5e
Kenku are cursed avian humanoids who have lost their wings and their voices. They are covered in black feathers and have talons for hands. Due to an ancient curse, kenku can only speak by mimicking sounds they have heard. They are natural thieves and scouts, often living on the fringes of society. Despite their curse, kenku are clever and resourceful, using their mimicry to great effect.
At a Glance
Ability Scores
+2 Dexterity, +1 Wisdom
Size
Medium
Speed
30 ft.
Languages
Common, Auran (can only speak using Mimicry)
Source
Volo's Guide to Monsters
Racial Traits
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Expert Duplication | When you copy writing or craftwork produced by yourself or someone else, you have advantage on ability checks you make to produce an exact duplicate. |
| Kenku Recall | Thanks to your supernaturally good memory, you have proficiency in two skills of your choice. Moreover, when you make an ability check using any skill in which you have proficiency, you can give yourself advantage on the check before rolling the d20. You can use this trait a number of times equal to your proficiency bonus, and you regain all expended uses when you finish a long rest. |
| Mimicry | You can accurately mimic sounds you have heard, including voices. A creature that hears the sounds you make can tell they are imitations only with a successful Wisdom (Insight) check against a DC of 8 + your proficiency bonus + your Charisma modifier. |
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Not roleplaying the inability to speak original words (must mimic)
Common Mistake
Not using Expert Duplication for forgery and counterfeiting opportunities
Common Mistake
Thinking Mimicry automatically fools people (they can make Insight checks)
Common Mistake
Not being creative with Mimicry for deception and infiltration
DM Tips
DM Tip
Kenku roleplaying can be challenging - work with players to make it fun, not frustrating
DM Tip
Allow them to build a 'phrase bank' of sounds they've heard
DM Tip
Their curse makes them tragic figures - explore themes of lost identity
DM Tip
Mimicry is excellent for espionage and heist scenarios
DM Tip
Kenku Recall makes them incredibly skilled - they can excel at any proficiency
DM Tip
Consider quests to break their curse as major character arcs
DM Tip
Expert Duplication can be pivotal in investigation or crime-focused campaigns
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Kenku — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD race text
- Kenku — D&D Beyond — Official race reference
- Kenku Handbook — RPGBOT — Race optimization guide