Yokai

A type of spirit from the east, more specifically Japan, that take the shapes of animals. Each form having it's own personality.
Having a generally positive outlook attributed to them by those that live near them, they are generally just viewed as a part of where one lives. It is not uncommon for the a specific Yokai or group of Yokai to frequent a specific place or household, and be 'adopted', in a sense, by the residents. Pest and household spirit wrapped into one, they can often be found sniffing around the cupboards and fields, only to be shooed off politely or given a placating snack.
While that might give them the impression of spiritual pets, that is far from the truth. They are intelligent creatures, capable of propitious forethought. Often doing things at random, or so they seem at the time, that eventually pay of down the line. They are also magically potent creatures, and while their magical is not understood in any sense of the word, it should not be trifled with or underestimated.
In rare cases, a Yokai will bond with a human. There is no ritual or detectable sign of the bond, but said Yokai will almost always be present around the individual. If they aren't, they have a preternatural sense of their bonded individuals location and their general disposition, even going so far as to know if their charge is in trouble or wounded in any way.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Yokai can take the form of any animal, though they cannot obscure their spiritual nature. Dogs, foxes, turtles, salmon, eagles, bears, etc, etc, everything is fair game when talking about the Yokai. Their forms are solid, to a varying degree, though they clearly look otherworldly. Often a pale white base to their coloration, with faint traces of other colors throughout as well as a natural glow.

Genetics and Reproduction

If the Yokai even reproduce, the method they use to do so is completely unknown. They might well just spring out of nothing and into existence.

Ecology and Habitats

They can live anywhere, really. Though they show a large preference for 'living' spaces. Forests, fields, cabins surrounded by woods, etc. They can, and do, live in more urban environments with no downside to their health, but most of those are household Yokai.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Like all spirits, they do not actually have to eat, but the Yokai certainly can. They are quite appreciative of gifts of food, on all accounts.

Additional Information

Average Intelligence

Human-like intelligence. Able to understand human speech, make plans, and execute them.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

While the Yokai can understand human speech, it is theorized to be less of an actual understanding and more of a direct connection between man and spirit. They seem to understand languages that they couldn't possibly have heard before, as well as those their 'speaking' to understanding their intentions without a word being spoken.

Scientific Name

Larua Parvus Quod