A Thestral is a rare magical creature with a rather bad reputation. A type of winged horse, Thestrals only ever appear to those that have witnessed death and fully accepted the concept of death. They are known to be carnivores that can smell blood from great distances. They have been documented hunting birds and other small animals.

Many witches and wizards consider Thestrals bad omens, though these claims are bias and without proof. Thestrals are generally exceptionally gentle creatures unless badly provoked. The Ministry of Magic considers Thestrals dangerous, and there are several laws in place regarding them. 

Thestrals are skeletal in appearance; they adorn two large, leathery wings that closely resemble a bat's. Their eyes lack pupils, making them eyes appear as a ghostly white. They communicate with different shrieks and whistles; these noises can be described as eerie and unsettling. Some witches and wizards find the noises oddly soothing.

Thestrals normally take residence in dark, quiet areas. Thick forests are one of their favorite habitats, which is where they thrive the most. The Thestral herd that takes residence in the Forbidden Forest of Hogwarts are tamed.