Jhopo (ˈDzho-Po)
From the Travel Journal of Barran Forefire
The Jhopo may be one of the more curious species that is encountered in the Maba'ji Wastes. This tiny mammal has very short forelimbs, but powerful back haunches and feet almost half its size. They are approximately 6 in. long, based on what I could see of them, with a tail as long or longer than the body, and maybe 6 oz. in weight. I say "what I could see of them," because these little Jhopo can jump up to 15 ft, and move at a speed of about 15 ft/sec, based on my observations. My guide, Lashrev, one of the Thraedra lizardfolk who live here, took me out at night to a stand of Urthikhi grasses to see them. Actually, he was setting snares, as Jhopo meat is considered a delicacy among their people. But it gave me time to observe and take notes on the little jumpers. (Jhopo is Thraedra for "jumper.") To combat the heat, these small animals are nocturnal, spending the heat of the day deep underground in their burrows. Lashrev says that the Jhopo live entirely off of seeds. They can store them inside their cheeks, and bury them in caches. The Jhopo get both food and water from these seeds. They do not need to drink at all. They are extremely partial, however, to the seeds of the Urthikhi Grass, hence the snares. We then went to check the snares that Lashrev had set the previous night, and he seemed pleased with his catch, about half a dozen Jhopo. We made our way back to the tribe's camp and prepared the meat, along with some tubers that had been scavenged. The Thraedra have a way of cooking meat on a skewer, with the tubers interspersed between them. It is known as 'kebab' and is quite delicious, if I do say so.
Scientific Name
Dipodomys mabajius
Average Weight
6 oz.
Average Length
14 inches
Geographic Distribution
I really like the way this is written. I love that the observer has to admit that his observations might be flawed due to how fast these little critters are. Really good article.