What is the Bird in Mountaintops of the Giants? A Deep Dive into Elden Ring’s Death Rite Bird

The menacing bird you encounter in the Mountaintops of the Giants is the Death Rite Bird, a powerful world boss in Elden Ring. This creature is not to be confused with its lesser counterpart, the Deathbird. While both are skeletal avian monstrosities associated with death, the Death Rite Bird is a significant step up in terms of difficulty, attack variety, and overall threat. Found specifically in the northwest region of the Mountaintops of the Giants, near the Stargazer’s Ruins, this encounter demands strategic planning and precise execution to overcome. The Death Rite Bird presents a formidable challenge to even experienced Tarnished. It’s characterized by a terrifying blend of Black Flame and Frostbite attacks, coupled with an aggressive and agile combat style that sets it apart from other bosses in the game. This bird is more than just a stronger version of the Deathbird; it’s a distinct entity with its own unique abilities and weaknesses.

Understanding the Death Rite Bird

Distinctive Features and Abilities

The Death Rite Bird differentiates itself from the common Deathbird not only in its physical presence but also in its combat repertoire. Unlike the Deathbird, which relies mostly on physical attacks, the Death Rite Bird employs a mix of Black Flame magic, inflicting damage over time, and Frostbite, which can severely hinder your movement and damage output. This dual offensive approach makes it a particularly dangerous opponent.

Its movements are also more erratic and agile compared to the Deathbird, often using sweeping attacks that cover a wide area and making it hard to predict its next move. This makes dodging and positioning critical for survival during this fight. The Death Blight status effect is also a potent threat, adding another layer of challenge for the player to manage.

Lore and Significance

These birds are understood to be connected to the forces of death in the Lands Between. Lore suggests they are remnants of an era before the Erdtree, where death was handled by being burned in ghostflame, and these birds acted as keepers of that fire, raking out the remains of the dead from their kilns. They are described as servants of Death, and are often associated with sites where ancient rituals and practices took place.

Combat Strategy

To effectively take on the Death Rite Bird, players need to understand its vulnerabilities. The bird is primarily weak to strike damage and holy damage. This makes weapons with blunt attacks, such as hammers or flails, as well as weapons infused with holy damage, highly effective against it. Players should also stock up on Rejuvenating Boluses, which will protect you from Death Blight.

Furthermore, recognizing the Death Rite Bird’s attack patterns is crucial. Its sweeping attacks are difficult to dodge, and getting hit can easily lead to a sequence of strikes that drain your health quickly. A strategic approach involves a combination of calculated dodges, capitalizing on openings after attacks, and using weapons that exploit its vulnerabilities. Due to its Frostbite attacks, carrying items that reduce frost damage is advantageous as well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between Deathbird and Death Rite Bird?

The Deathbird is a generally weaker boss found in multiple locations and is more vulnerable. The Death Rite Bird, however, is a stronger, more agile version that utilizes both Black Flame and Frostbite attacks in addition to regular strikes and can inflict Death Blight.

2. Where can I find the Death Rite Bird in Mountaintops of the Giants?

The Death Rite Bird in the Mountaintops of the Giants is located northwest of the Stargazer’s Ruins. It only spawns at nighttime.

3. What are the weaknesses of the Death Rite Bird?

The Death Rite Bird is weak to strike damage and holy damage. Weapons that deal blunt damage or those infused with holy attributes are most effective.

4. What is Death Blight, and how do I cure it?

Death Blight is a status effect that can instantly kill you if the gauge is filled. It is inflicted by certain enemies, including the Death Rite Bird. It can be cured with Rejuvenating Boluses.

5. What is the lore behind the Deathbirds?

The Deathbirds are said to be the offspring of an entity called the twinbird, an envoy of an outer god. They are also associated with the ghostflame and are considered graveyard fire keepers, raking out the remains of the dead.

6. What is the significance of the ghostflame?

Ghostflame is an ancient form of fire used to burn the dead in the era before the Erdtree. Deathbirds are connected to this practice, acting as keepers of the flame.

7. What are the other locations where I can find Deathbirds?

Deathbirds can be found in Warmaster’s Shack, Weeping Peninsula, Scenic Isle, and the Capital Outskirts.

8. Is there a Death Rite Bird in Caelid?

Yes, there is also a Death Rite Bird in Caelid, located southeast of the Southern Aeonia Swamp Bank Site of Grace.

9. Are there any other areas with Death Rite Birds?

Apart from the Mountaintops of the Giants and Caelid, there are no other locations where you can find Death Rite Birds.

10. What kind of attacks does the Death Rite Bird use?

The Death Rite Bird uses a mix of physical attacks, Black Flame magic, and Frostbite attacks. It is also much more agile than the regular Deathbird.

11. Why is Caelid considered cursed?

Caelid is ravaged by Scarlet Rot, a disease that has turned the region into a putrid swamp filled with monstrous creatures. It is the result of a battle between Radahn and Malenia.

12. Is Caelid an optional area in Elden Ring?

Yes, Caelid is an optional area. You do not need to explore it to progress through the main story of Elden Ring.

13. What weapons are best to use against Crystalians?

Crystalians are best dealt with using heavy weapons that deal high physical damage, such as the Grafted Blade Greatsword or Sword of Night-and-Flame, which can break their armor.

14. What are Bell Bearing Hunters weak to?

Bell Bearing Hunters are weak to Lightning damage and are also susceptible to Hemorrhage and Scarlet Rot.

15. Where can I fight Lichdragon Fortissax?

The Lichdragon Fortissax can be found in the deepest parts of the Deeproot Depths, accessible by progressing through Fia’s questline.

This detailed guide should provide you with a solid understanding of the Death Rite Bird in the Mountaintops of the Giants and prepare you for the challenges it presents. Remember to utilize its weaknesses and adapt your strategies for a successful encounter. Good luck, Tarnished!