Werewolf

Werewolves (Lycanthropes) are a supernatural species in Vampire Diaries.

Werewolves were hinted at in the last episode of the first season and until that moment their existence was unknown. They were first seen in the episode Bad Moon Rising, where Mason transformed because of a full moon.

History

In Isobel's research at Duke University and from Vanessa Monroe, Elena found out that according to legend, a vampire will be killed by a bite from a werewolf and that centuries ago, vampires hunted werewolves. Most were wiped out to near extinction because of the threat that they were to vampires. As a werewolf their prey of choice are vampires. But werewolves will also hunt humans.

According to legend, 600 years ago the Aztecs were plagued by vampires and werewolves that terrorized the countryside, making farming and hunting impossible. Until an Aztec Shaman used a powerful spell to curse them and bind werewolves to the moon and making vampires slaves to the sun. When the full moon appears, those who have been under the curse will transform into a wolf. Centuries of rivalry and animosity have made vampires and werewolf natural enemies.

It is unknown if being bitten by a werewolf spreads the curse but those with the werewolf curse in their family must kill a human in order to activate the gene therefore the curse is theirs forever.

Those with the werewolf curse like Tyler can exhibit some werewolf traits like yellow eyes and aggression but cannot transform.

Powers and Abilities

They show signs of supersonic hearing as Tyler Lockwood was harmed by the Gilbert Device, which was only meant for vampires.

They heal faster or be more naturally resistant to harm as Tyler Lockwood walked away from the car crash virtually unharmed. They have superhuman agility, strength and senses. They are far more powerful than humans, however it should be known that while in human form they are not as powerful as vampires. Stefan did lose to Mason in an arm wrestling match. They can also jump very high. There is also a mysterious artifact called a Moonstone and its use is currently unknown, but should have some effect on werewolves. Werewolves' speed and strength appears to rival if not exceed a vampires, while transformed.

Weaknesses

A known weakness of the werewolves was the Device (it could only be used once) invented by Johnathan Gilbert, as it was harmful to Tyler Lockwood and his father.

Myths

There are not weak against silver as told by Mason, after Damon stabbed him with a silver knife. Mason said that the myth was probably started by werewolves.

Physical and Psychological Characteristics

Werewolves are known to be aggressive and their eyes turn yellow while enraged as Mason's eyes had turned this color when he stopped the fight between Tyler and Carter. Also after Damon stabbed Mason with a silver knife, it seemed to have little to no effect on him meaning they either heal fast or can withstand physical damage.