Rarely seen even in their natural habitat of mountainous rainforests, Kosmira Girafos spend their days scaling cliffs in search of food. They feed mainly on lichens and moss, which grow abundantly in the lush, humid environment. The spotted patterns of their fur help them blend in with their rocky surroundings. Their unusual six-legged appearance is due to an odd mutation in their genetic makeup, and they use their vestigial front legs to aid in balance while climbing. The “fins” on their back and their large ears improve heat loss, keeping them cool even in the hot climate. Though generally docile in nature, Kosmira Girafos are quick to react to a perceived threat with a sharp butt of their long, curved horns or a swift kick from their powerful hind legs. Unlike many grazing species, they prefer solitude, only seeking another’s companionship during the short spring mating season. Their deep, eerie calls can be heard for miles. If several males answer a female’s summons, they will fight over her, locking horns and butting heads until one of them triumphs.

The creatures that dwell in this rather desolate world still display some diversity in appearance, eating habits, and social behavior. Whether they have fur or feathers, skin or scales, their unique genetic makeup allows for a variety of colors and markings within each species. Despite limitations in food sources, herbivores, omnivores, and carnivores are all present in the food chain, and each species requires specialized care within a laboratory. Although the artificial setting of housing units and breeding pods precludes most opportunities to study true interspecific behavior, the interactions within and between species has been studied extensively in the wilderness by scientists daring enough to venture beyond the outpost’s walls.

Creature Notes

• Galactica is less shy than any of the other Girafos we've observed so far. More research is needed to determine whether this is due to our improved experience at handling these creatures or just her individual personality. /Prof. P. Uppy
• A very interesting observation, dear colleague! I'd like to add that her bold colours are the result of a difference in only one single gene - aaBB instead of AaBB, meaning the bolder colouration is recessive. Fascinating! /Prof. Dr. Dust
• There is also a possibility of a link between phenotype and behaviour, since bold colours and patterns like hers make hiding impossible, leaving only fight or flight as the only options. /Prof. P. Uppy