The Beasts of Chaos faction in Warhammer Age of Sigmar is known for its raw ferocity and untamed monstrosities. Among the many wild creatures at their command, the Cockatrice stands out as a strange, magical beast with a reputation for turning even the strongest warriors into stone. Though often overlooked due to its solitary nature and niche role, the Cockatrice can be a terrifying addition to any Beasts of Chaos army when used strategically. With a unique combination of movement, offensive magic, and debilitation abilities, the Cockatrice fills a specialized but valuable role on the battlefield.
What is the Cockatrice in Beasts of Chaos?
The Cockatrice is a monstrous creature found within the Beasts of Chaos roster. It’s not a part of the traditional Brayherd, Warherd, or Thunderscorn factions, but exists as an ally to all those who embrace the primal chaos of the wilds. With avian features, a serpentine tail, and a gaze capable of petrifying its foes, the Cockatrice embodies unnatural magic and chaotic energy.
Originally hailing from older editions of Warhammer Fantasy, the Cockatrice was reintroduced into Age of Sigmar with updated rules that reflect its unique combat style. It thrives on flanking maneuvers, ambush tactics, and surprise attacks, making it perfect for players who enjoy creative battlefield positioning and psychological warfare.
Unit Characteristics and Stats
As a Monster, the Cockatrice boasts a solid statline that makes it fast and deadly under the right circumstances. It may not be as tanky as other large Beasts of Chaos units, but its offensive capabilities more than compensate for its weaknesses when used correctly.
Core Stats (as of the most recent battletome)
- Move: 12′
- Wounds: 10
- Save: 5+
- Bravery: 6
The Cockatrice’s high movement allows it to dart across the battlefield, bypassing terrain and enemy units to strike from unexpected angles. This mobility also makes it a great choice for pursuing vulnerable heroes or soft backline targets.
Petrifying Gaze Ability
The most iconic ability of the Cockatrice is itsPetrifying Gaze. This magical attack is not only flavorful but deadly when used at the right time. With this ability, the Cockatrice can target enemy models and potentially shut down key threats before they can act.
Petrifying Gaze Rules Summary
- Activated in the shooting phase
- Select an enemy unit within 10′ and roll a dice
- On a 4+, that unit suffers D6 mortal wounds
This is a powerful ability, especially against elite infantry or wounded heroes. Mortal wounds bypass normal saves, making Petrifying Gaze a strong tool to weaken or finish off units that are otherwise difficult to eliminate.
Combat Attacks and Role in Melee
While the Cockatrice excels as a ranged support unit thanks to its magical gaze, it’s no slouch in melee either. With multiple attacks and a respectable damage output, it can handle smaller enemy units or tie up foes that are vulnerable to disruption.
Attack Profile
- Beak and Claws: 4 Attacks, 3+ to hit, 3+ to wound, Rend -1, Damage D3
This attack profile makes the Cockatrice especially effective against lightly-armored units. While it won’t outfight monsters like Ghorgons or Cygors in direct melee, it can easily dispatch enemy archers, mages, or objective holders with a swift charge.
Synergy with Beasts of Chaos Armies
The Cockatrice truly shines when integrated with the Beasts of Chaos’ core tactics. Ambush mechanics and mobility are key themes for this faction, and the Cockatrice complements that playstyle well. Since it’s a Monster, it can also be used to score battle tactics and interact with certain objectives that require Monsters specifically.
Best Tactical Uses
- Flanking: Use its high speed to maneuver around enemy lines and target vulnerable backline units.
- Ambush Deployment: In certain lists, Cockatrices can be set up in reserve and deployed using the Ambush rule, adding surprise pressure.
- Assassination: Send it after wounded heroes to finish them with Petrifying Gaze.
- Objective Contesting: Use its mobility to contest objectives late in the game.
These strategies help the Cockatrice avoid prolonged engagements while maximizing its burst damage and psychological impact on your opponent’s game plan.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Like all units in Age of Sigmar, the Cockatrice has both advantages and drawbacks. Knowing when and how to deploy it makes all the difference between a wasted slot and a game-winning maneuver.
Strengths
- Fast and highly mobile
- Petrifying Gaze deals mortal wounds reliably
- Good melee damage against light and mid-tier targets
- Excellent synergy with ambush and flanking tactics
Weaknesses
- Fragile for a Monster with only 10 wounds and 5+ save
- Can’t stand up to elite melee units
- Petrifying Gaze requires proximity, risking counterattack
Overall, the Cockatrice should be played as a hit-and-run threat. It’s not built for sustained combat but excels when used to disrupt or finish off critical targets.
List Building Considerations
When constructing a Beasts of Chaos army, it’s important to consider how the Cockatrice fits into your larger game plan. While not always an auto-include, it offers utility that many other units lack, especially in more flexible or narrative-driven lists.
When to Include a Cockatrice
- You need a source of ranged mortal wounds
- You want a fast Monster for objective play
- You’re facing hero-heavy or elite armies
Pairing the Cockatrice with spellcasters like a Great Bray-Shaman can offer magical support, while Warherd units like Bullgors can provide the muscle. This combination of strength and agility allows you to build a well-rounded force.
Painting and Modeling Appeal
Beyond the tabletop, the Cockatrice is also a fan favorite among hobbyists. With a model that blends bird, reptile, and chaos influences, it’s a fun creature to paint and customize. Many players choose to give their Cockatrice vibrant colors or sinister tones to emphasize its magical and monstrous origins.
The Cockatrice in Beasts of Chaos is a wild, unpredictable force that fits perfectly within the army’s theme of primal chaos. With its Petrifying Gaze, speed, and striking presence, it offers players a unique tactical tool that can turn the tide of battle when used wisely. Whether you’re looking to disrupt enemy formations, hunt down isolated heroes, or add a visually striking monster to your collection, the Cockatrice is a rewarding choice that embodies the feral cunning of the Beasts of Chaos. Master its movement and learn to strike at just the right moment, and your enemies will never see it coming until they’re turned to stone.