Gargoyle (Tyranids)

Gargoyles are a breed of Tyranid bio-construct of the Gaunt genus which feature in Games Workshop's Warhammer 40,000 universe.

Description
Whilst sharing the three-paired limbed configuration so common amongst Tyranid organisms, Gargoyles differ in that only their middle set are capable of being outfitted with bioweapons. The fore and aft pair have been genetically repurposed to support the creature's batlike, leathery wings, which grant Gargoyles an astonishing degree of aerial mobility.

Although capable of independent flight, their small size makes the range of a Gargoyle limited. As such, they are often carried to their destination by the enormous flying monstrosities known as Harridans before being unleashed upon an unsuspecting foe.

Battlefield Role
Gargoyles are typically deployed in vast flocks as the vanguard of Tyranid swarms, acting as scouts, pickets and fast attack troops. Whilst most races they encounter rely on technology to achieve flight, the Tyranids will use huge numbers of Gargoyles to dominate the air, their relative fragility being offset by the sheer number of these creatures which can be brought to bear. Even should they fail to destroy their target, the tales of airborne Tyranids which inevitably spread following a Gargoyle attack function as a highly-effective form of psychological warfare: now defenders must not only man their fortifications, but also keep an eye on the skies above.