Saltantas are an elusive species that can be difficult to spot thanks to their mottled fur and bushy mane and tail, which allow them to disguise themselves among plants, rocks, and other natural objects. They are powerful ambush hunters capable of stalking prey for days until the opportunity to strike arises. Their strong, muscular body is best suited for short bursts of speed, so it is crucial that they deliver a swift, fatal blow with their sharp claws or fangs. As they only need to eat once or twice a month, Saltantas spend much of their time wandering. They have no set territory, preferring to seek out new places every day, and thus tracking them can be challenging. Females carry their young on their back until the juveniles are old enough to walk; the soft fur of their mane makes a comfortable nest. Saltantas communicate mainly in low growls and snarls, though there are reports that they can also produce a soft, rumbling purr.

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

• Enjoys play fighting and seems to like hunting wild prey alone--requires being let free for long periods of time to wander, as she does not cooperate well indoors for too long
• Attached to others of her species and tolerates similar size creatures and people well enough, however smaller animals and young children are advised to be careful interacting without supervision
• Faithfully returns to the lab at nightfall each time, only to depart in the morning--displays some resemblance of familiarity and loyalty to caretakers, although still highly independent
• Favorite spot to scratch is behind the ears... will only allow those most trusted to do so