The origin of the hyena-like gnolls is shrouded in mystery. They appear to be native to Oerth and are so savage that they are incapable of co-existence with other groups. They exist in small bands that roam the grasslands at the edges of civilization, plundering and slaughtering.

Interestingly, gnolls do not appear to have separate sexes and have no apparent means of reproduction. Rumors persist that new gnolls are created through a dark ritual sacrifice that turns a hyena into a gnoll. Some rumors even suggest that this ritual is of ancient origin and may explain the origin of the first gnolls.