Priggle


PRIH-gull

Priggles are a common forest-dweller throughout all of Subeta, and are found in nearly every wooded area. In fact, anthropoligists often say that if there is a large shade tree over a patch of soft, damp dirt, there is surely a priggle nearby to dig in it! With its stumpy legs and sweet face, it is no wonder that priggles have charmed their way into the homes of many Subetans.

Priggles are quite low to the ground; when standing with their legs fully extended, they reach only 10 inches (25 cm) at the shoulder. They average 20-25 inches (51-64 cm) in length, not including their long tails. They can weigh between 15-20 pounds (7-9 kg), though males, with their thicker layer of quills, tend to weigh more. The quills on a priggle are specially-modified hair with an extremely thick layer of keratin, though they appear almost scale-like. Similar to reptiles, priggles will shed these quills throughout their lives, particularly during a spring molt or through a large growth spurt. The quills are quite tough - both on and off a priggle's back! - and shedded quills are commonly used as jewelry. For priggles, they are used more for defense than for a fashion statement, and priggles have very few predators due to the protective coating. Their thin tails end in a club-like cluster of sharp spines that make an excellent weapon. A priggle is very vulnerable on its belly, however, where it is covered in soft, fine fur. By staying low to the ground, priggles are able to protect this sensitive area against attack.

Priggles will not go out of their way to seek the company of others, but they are commonly found in large groups due to a general feeling of indifference! They will dig in the same piles of dirt, looking for roots, fallen berries, and their favorite treat - insects. On cold nights, they will often bundle up together in a hollowed-out den; they have even been observed to take rest breaks at the dens of others prior to moving on the next day. Newborn priggles are extremely defenseless, as they are born without any fur. As they grow, they will stick close to their mother and their den to avoid predators. It takes about three full months for the first layer of hard keratin to form, and another three for a priglet to fully develop its club tail. At this point, they many choose to move through the forest on their own or to stay with their mothers, although no real lasting family bonds are formed.

Priggles make excellent pets. They need a large enclosure with a pile of damp dirt to play in, but overall they have very little in the way of special requirements. They are quite curious, so it is best to bury their food in the dirt to encourage them to snuff around and dig; many priggles become destructive out of boredom. Priggles enjoy sitting in their owner's laps and can even be leash-trained. Their spines pose very little threat to people, and they can be pet similarly to other fuzzy pets - though it is best to pet along the hairline rather than against it. One should take care to avoid their tails, however, since an over-excited priggle may cause unintentional injury.


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