Pufferkins

Pufferkins are rather curious creatures, hybrids of plant and animal.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Pufferkins resemble a cross between a kitten, a furby, and a dandelion. They have catlike faces, ears, and tail with a body resembling a dandelion puff and two paws that they stand on.

Genetics and Reproduction

Pufferkins are the seed spreaders for the Pufferkin plant. When they come across an area where conditions are good for growing pufferkin plants, the pufferkin will "poff," releasing spores into the air. When these spores touch down, they will begin to germinate into pufferkin plants.

Ecology and Habitats

Pufferkins do best in the temperate climate of the Kitten's Paw Forest, where pufferkin plants grow abundantly.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Pufferkins are photosynthetic; as long as they get enough water and sunlight, they don't need to eat.

Behaviour

Pufferkins are most active during late May and early June when pufferkin plants are seeding. They give off a sweet scent and are generally friendly creatures. When they are threatened or spreading seeds, they "poff," releasing spores into the air. A pufferkin will only "poff" a few times before all of its spores are used up. After this, the pufferkin dies painlessly.

Additional Information

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Pufferkins are generally confined to the Kitten's Paw Forest, though individual pufferkin plants have been spotted all across Pandora.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Pufferkins have keen hearing and can sense when a piece of land is a good place for pufferkin plants to grow by the feeling under their feet.

Magical Powers and Abilities

The pollen that pufferkins release when they "poff" is quite allergenic. Even worse, when they are threatened, their "poff" will shoot out microscopic needles that bury themselves into the skin of the attacker. These needles contain trace amounts of venom that cause an itchy rash wherever they touch. While these reactions are mostly annoying, those who are particularly sensitive to pufferkin pollen or venom can experience anaphylaxis. It is recommended that travelers stock up on antihistamines and epinephrine if they are travelling through the Kitten's Paw Forest.

Associated Element
Earth

Scientific Name

Taraxacum Felidae

Lifespan

1-2 weeks

Average Height

1 ft. (30 cm)

Average Weight

10 lbs (4.5kg)

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Pufferkins' color depends on which plant they were spawned from. They can be white, pink, baby blue, or yellow.