They seemed like they'd be more wise than intelligent (ancient race and long-lived and blah blah). They also seemed like they'd be tough skin (bark) and therefore be more similar to giant (big size, maybe resistant physicial attacks)....
I'd rather see something that is just strong, but not hearty and not wise and not naturally resistant to attacks (not thick skinned).
My idea spark started from...we're missing the mechanical angle when I'm daydreaming about legacy/edge combos. The actual race types is just a fun layer on top of the missing skeleton. I think the reptillian angle or these dunestalkers that are suggested really seem to carve out a new RP set of opportunities. Double bonus.