Blood Dragons are the first named breed of dragon the Dragonborn runs into, appearing once the player reaches level 18. They are bigger, faster and tougher than the plain brown dragons of the early game, and they mark the point where dragon fights stop being a formality.
They look more like lizards than their cousins: bright green, with small smooth scales, yellow eyes with horizontal pupils, a wide frill instead of horns and a fin along the back instead of spines. Even the tail ends in a leaf-like fin rather than the usual diamond tip.
Where to find them
Blood Dragons have no fixed lair; they can show up anywhere in Skyrim once you hit level 18. Higher-level breeds such as Frost Dragons, Elder Dragons and Ancient Dragons join them as you climb higher.
Fighting in the air and on the ground
The fight usually starts in the air, with the dragon diving or hovering to breathe on you. Melee characters should find cover and keep potions ready – frost breath in particular drains stamina and slows movement. A bow is the best tool while it circles. Mages have an easier time: Lesser Ward can block a breath if you have enough magicka, and the opposite element hurts more – Flames or Firebolt against frost-breathers, Frostbite against fire-breathers.
Once its health falls below half, it can no longer stay airborne and crashes down. Then circle, strike and dodge. Mages can add Oakflesh or Stoneflesh, and with the Ward Absorb perk a single blocked breath can refill your magicka.
Notes
- A Blood Dragon may breathe either fire or frost, so check before picking your counter-spell.
- Shouts are part of its arsenal, just like any other dragon.
- Like all dragons, it gives the Dragonborn a dragon soul when killed.
