Dorsal Dragons are so named because they have large fins along their backs that can be raised and lowered at will. They use these fins to regulate body temperature; they raise them to cool off when they become overheated. The bright colors on the fins double as a means of attracting mates.

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.

Zahn constantly complains of aches in her teeth but, in spite of the number of times Lagie or the healing dragons have looked and checked, poked and prodded, they have been unable to find the cause, or even to ascertain there is a problem. Nevertheless, Zahn complains.

When she's not complaining, Zahn spends her time munching on bones left over from other dragons' meals. She claims they taste better than fresh ones.