The creature was listed under 'Harz Bird' in the 4th edition Bestiary.
Ah ok, i read your text as relating them to Ignem rather than Rego so i totally failed to make those connections.
An Epops was also known as "king of the birds", because it has a sort of crown crest.
While it cannot fly, I have a character in a new campaign that is a Tremere with a Transylvanian white she-wolf as a magical animal companion. Since my magus is a rego/herbam/animal specialists, the plan is to use Re An to bind the wolf as a familiar. In addition to cool abilities that these wolves have, it starts with intelligence and has he ability to learn Latin, etc.
Something that has not been addressed, can a familiar still procreate despite their lengthened life. Does the longevity potion of a wizard have any deleterious effects to the animal? Moreover, does the sterility still occur in the new "canon"?
As an aside, I have been toying with naming the animal "Masquerade” since it is a white wolf of a Tremere from Transylvania. Thought we would not catch that one, Tim. ?
How about a peacock ? It's more Rego Imaginem than Rego Ignem, but at least the Rego part is there, and it is impressive.
With all respect to Pliny, just create a new creature - a "firebird".
Not everything under the big blue magical sun needs be previously known or named.