Mounts have finally arrived in RuneScape: Dragonwilds, and while the system is still very limited, the Fell Hollow update introduced a unique ghostly mount that many players are curious about. This Runescape Dragonwilds Mount Guide explains exactly how to unlock the Terror Bird mount, where to find the required enemies, and what to expect from the mount once you have it.
Runescape Dragonwilds Mount Guide – Unlock the Terror Bird
The Terror Bird is a spectral mount unlocked deep into the Fell Hollow region. It is not an early-game feature and is clearly designed for players who have already progressed far enough to explore dangerous biomes and level five enemies.
While the mount offers slightly faster movement and a short glide, it is extremely fragile. Taking a single hit will dismiss it, making it unreliable in combat-heavy areas. Its primary value is mobility while exploring Fell Hollow, not fighting or long-distance traversal.
How to Start the Terror Bird Quest
Once you enter Fell Hollow for the first time, you will arrive in Bleak Fields Valley. From this central area, three main paths branch out in different directions as part of the main story progression.
Between the north and west paths, there is a small structure. Head there to find an NPC near the standing stones. This NPC introduces the Terror Bird quest and explains that he needs three Terror Bird Hearts.
Accepting this task unlocks your ability to hunt Spirit Terror Birds across Willow Groves.
Willow Groves
Willow Groves are the key locations for finding Spirit Terror Birds. These areas are easy to identify once you understand what to look for.
Willow trees have long, drooping leaves instead of upright or clustered branches. A single willow tree does not count as a grove. You must find an area with multiple willow trees close together.
As you explore and reveal the map, keep scanning for clusters of these trees. Most Terror Bird spawns are tied directly to these groves.
Spirit Terror Bird Locations
There are three required Terror Bird Hearts, and each comes from a Spirit Terror Bird found in different Willow Groves.
The first grove is located in the far north, just past a large spire. This area is extremely dangerous and guarded by level five enemies, including a Skeletal Upper. If you are undergeared, it is recommended to avoid direct combat and focus on mobility. Using snare traps, terrain advantage, or simply sneaking past enemies can save a lot of frustration.
The second grove lies west of the quest NPC. Follow the western path until you reach the Willow Range region, then head south. This area is slightly safer but still packed with hostile creatures.
The third grove is located in the northwest corner of the map. Look for pools of water surrounded by multiple willow trees and a small uphill path leading into the glade. The Spirit Terror Bird here behaves similarly to the others and is usually found wading in shallow water.
Fighting Spirit Terror Birds
Spirit Terror Birds are passive unless attacked. They will not chase you and will only emit warning sounds when approached.
Once engaged, they inflict bleeding damage, so preparation is important. Bringing food that mitigates bleeding effects is strongly recommended. Roast Dinner meals are one of the best options available at this stage of the game.
After killing a Spirit Terror Bird, you will receive a Terror Bird Heart. Each kill also rewards access to valuable resources in the area.
Recommended Preparation Before Hunting
Before attempting this quest, it is highly recommended to upgrade your gear.
Steel equipment makes a noticeable difference, especially the Steel Axe. Willow wood is required for crafting this axe, and it is also needed to break certain roots and dead trees found throughout Fell Hollow.
Bring plenty of waypoint stones for fast travel, healing items, and speed potions. Respawn stones are also extremely useful, especially if you are pushing into high-level zones early.
Extra Resources in Willow Groves
Willow Groves are some of the most resource-rich locations in Fell Hollow. While farming Terror Bird Hearts, you will often find:
Coal nodes
Granite deposits
Kadaava berries
Multiple willow trees
Golden chests hidden on or near ruins
Always explore the tops of nearby ruins, as golden chests frequently spawn there.
Returning to the NPC and Unlocking the Mount
Once all three Terror Bird Hearts are collected, return to the NPC who gave you the quest. Turning in the hearts permanently unlocks the Terror Bird mount.
After unlocking it, the game also hints that you can obtain additional hearts to give mounts to friends, suggesting that Spirit Terror Birds likely respawn over time.
In its current state, the Terror Bird mount is underwhelming. It offers limited speed, minimal glide utility, and is dismissed after taking a single hit. It does not negate fall damage and provides no combat benefits.
That said, it is still useful for light exploration in Fell Hollow and may become stronger in future updates. The mount system itself shows promise, especially if early-game mounts or durability improvements are added later.
If you are rushing this mount early, avoid unnecessary fights and rely on speed and positioning. If you are progressing naturally, gather steel gear first and treat the mount as a bonus rather than a core upgrade.
Future updates are likely to expand the mount system, so unlocking the Terror Bird now may be worthwhile for long-term progression.