Stormfly is indeed a wyvern and not a dragon. While dragons and wyverns are often used interchangeably in popular culture, they are actually distinct creatures with different physical characteristics.
The main difference between dragons and wyverns lies in their anatomy and appearance. Dragons typically have four legs and a pair of wings, while wyverns have two legs and a pair of wings. This means that wyverns, including Stormfly, walk on their hind legs and use their front limbs as wings.
The term “wyvern” is derived from the Old English word “wivere” or “wefre,” which means “serpent” or “viper.” This reflects the reptilian nature of wyverns, as they are often depicted with scaly bodies, elongated necks, and a snake-like tail. Stormfly, for instance, possesses these physical attributes, further confirming her classification as a wyvern.
In the case of Stormfly from the “How to Train Your Dragon” franchise, she is specifically referred to as a Deadly Nadder, which is a type of wyvern. Deadly Nadders are characterized by their sharp spines along their backs, vibrant coloration, and the ability to shoot projectiles from their tails. Stormfly embodies all these traits, making her a quintessential example of a Deadly Nadder and, consequently, a wyvern.
It’s worth noting that the distinction between dragons and wyverns varies in different mythologies and fictional universes. In some stories, the terms are used interchangeably or have different interpretations. However, within the context of Stormfly and the “How to Train Your Dragon” series, the creators have specifically classified her as a wyvern, aligning with the traditional characteristics of this creature.
To summarize, Stormfly, the beloved dragon-like creature from the “How to Train Your Dragon” franchise, is not technically a dragon but a wyvern. Her anatomical features, including two legs and a pair of wings, along with her classification as a Deadly Nadder, firmly place her within the wyvern category.