Varupt

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The Varupt is a small herbivore from the Montgar continent of Gars.

Physiology

A squat and stocky creature, the Varupt has a beak-like mouth and a very short tail. Its body is large and a layer of fatty tissue lies under its skin. On the skin are very small quills, which function like fur.

The animal has very small eyes, but has protruding, floppy ears. It also has large spiracles along its head for olfaction.

The animal has scoop-like claws for digging through snow or soil.

Diet

Primarily a root- and tuber-eating animal, the Varupt will occasionally eat carrion.

Reproduction

Sexual animals, and viviparous, Varupt reproduce several times with different partners during the early Garsian spring. Gestation takes nine days, and between two and five young are born. They become capable of walking and digging at two weeks old, but until then are fed by their parents and other relatives.

Behaviour

Varupt form large 'clans', of one to ten extended families. Within these clans, all Varupt will care for the children and the sick, though they prioritise their own young if possible.

If a predator enters a clan's territory, they will often try to mob it or lure it away from where the young are being kept.