Critters, multiple attacks, standard actions

[Schmoe]

I have a simple question (I think). With a standard action, a creature or PC can make a single attack. However, many creatures have their attacks listed as: "2 claws, 1 bite, 8 foos".

So, does using 2 claws count as a single attack? Can a creature make 8 foo attacks in the surprise round with a partial charge, assuming it has the attack line given above?

I'm sure this is probably covered somewhere in the rules, but I've yet to be able to find it.

 

[Macbrea]

Say, you have a Large Young adult black dragon.


It has 1 bite (2d6), 2 claw (1d8), 2 wing (1d6), 1 tail (1d8)
BAB +19

Alright assuming it doesn't have Multiattack [general].


We assume the first listed attack is its primary attack. Though any of its attacks can be counted as its primary attack. As that only really means its first attack.

If the dragon moves only a 5ft step: It attacks Bite (+19)/2 claw(+14/+14)/2 wing(+14/+14)/ 1 tail(+14)

If it moves more then 5ft: Any one of its attacks at +19. I.E. 1 Claw (+19)

Multiattack feat: changes that to +19/+17/+17/+17/+17/+17 for 5ft step.
Or +19 for moving more then 5ft.

So, to answer the question on wether they can take more then a standard attack action during a partial action the answer is no. Unless you have the Pounce feat.

 

[Geoff Watson]

One attack on a standard or partial action, for (nearly) everyone. There are a few creatures that get an exception.

(See Full Attack, PHB p124.)

Geoff.

 

[Schmoe]

I guess my question is:

If the attack line for a creature reads: 2 claws, 1 bite

Does the "2 claws" count as 1 attack?

 

[Plane Sailing]

No, the 2 claws count as two separate attacks.

A standard action is one attack out of all the possibilities that it has. A full attack allows it to unload with all its attacks.

the only exception that allows a full attack after moving more than 5ft that comes to mind are creatures with the "pounce" SA which allows them to make a full attack at the end of a charge (or, of course, hasted creatures. Fear the hasted dragon!)