Domestic catowl
A popular domestic animal, the domestic catowl (commonly known as just catowl) is a common sight in human habitations around the world. They were originally kept--and thus domesticated--as pest control in their native lands of Uspa, but as the human race developed, their pet catowls came along with them. They were carried across the world on ships were they served as pest control, sometimes even sneaking aboard unnoticed thanks to their silent nature. As a result, however, they've also become quite the invasive species, a threat to small prey species across the world.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Domestic catowls bear strong resemblance to their wild ancestors. Just like other catowls they are quadrupedal animals with feathered wings, though in some breeds the wings are intentionally grown too small for flight. Their faces are fairly flat, with a characteristic facial disk and large rounded eyes, leading into triangular ears. Their beaks are hooked, and their teeth pointed. Like their wild counterparts, domestic catowls have large talons, which they keep semi-retracted.
As a domesticated species, and especially one so populous, catowls display a wider variety in appearances than their wild ancestors. Though they are normally coated in short fur covering most of the body, this is not the case for all catowls. Some possess long thick fur instead, whereas others have less or even no fur, displaying a mostly bare animal with some scattered scales. Hairless catowls typically retain the feathers on face, wings, and tail, but not always.
Additional Information
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Like their ancestors, domestic catowls have excellent senses well-tuned to hunting. Their eyesight and hearing are fantastic, and while their nose is somewhat middling, they can make up for it with their Jacobson's organ, using the flehmen response.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
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