Bah, my entry for the pixelator round 1.
Colors: 17 (9 on creature)
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The Goggawilwennis (or "Bug Demon")
Within the vast, barren wastelands of Barrow Stone, the lumbering figure of a Goggawilwennis is a strange, but formidable, sight. Although docile by nature, the Goggawilwennis has gained the fearsome name of “Bug Demon” due to its strange symbiotic relationship with the Clung Beetle. These insects gather upon the Goggawilwennis to feed upon the many mites and ticks that accumulate within its coarse fur and skin. In doing so, they not only rid the Goggawilwennis of harmful parasites, but also form a thick, protective armour on the Goggawilwennis’ hide. Clung Beetles can congregate by the thousands on their host, and reports of Bug Demons that seem to be entirely composed of a living mass of beetles are not uncommon. In addition, Clung Beetles also emit a powerful stench that drives away all but the most determined of predators, and they are able to coexist in large numbers with the Goggawilwennis only because of the latter’s poor sense of smell. In exchange for performing these vital services, the Bug Demon provides a safe place for the Clung Beetles to live and breed. The Demon’s large size frightens away the beetles’ usual predators, and few Clung Beetles ever stray more than a metre from the safety of their host.
Despite the Goggawilwennis’ intimidating appearance, their small hind legs and bulky upper bodies do not allow for much speed or stealth, and they rarely pose a threat to others. In fact, they subsist entirely on a diet consisting of carrion and the leftover meal scraps of larger animals. Their body is ideally adapted for their role as a scavenger, as their ability to balance on their hind legs allows them to remain mobile while tearing tough meat with their well-developed forepaws. In addition, their forelimbs also allow them to eat without lowering their head, and they are therefore able to keep their heads upright and remain alert for predators for hours at a time while feeding.
Due to their large size and the relative scarcity of their food, the Goggawilwennis is usually a solitary creature, and relies on its relationship with the Clung Beetle as its primary means of defense. However, in times when the threat of predation is particularly high, Goggawilwennises have been known to form co-operative groups for protection. Although small in size and rare in occurrence, these groups have a surprising amount of complexity and social organization, leaving many to believe that there is still much more we can learn about what is often viewed simply as a frightening, primitive creature.
(Thanks to MashPotato for changing my horrible description into what it is now as my english sucks  ) |
Top Pixel Art - February 2007 (#4)
Amazing