Bantha



Banthas are sturdy and easily domesticated beasts of burden that are found all over the galaxy.

Biology
The Bantha is one of the most adaptable herbivorous creatures in the galaxy and can be found on several worlds. They are able to survive in almost any environmental extremes and can go without food or water for several weeks. Although subspecies have diverged from their baseline ancestors, most share similar characteristics. They are quadrupeds, covered with shaggy fur and have two large curved horns. A common Bantha adult is between two and three meters tall and can weigh up to 4,000 kilos. Their lifespan runs between 80 and 100 years and they reach maturity at the age of 20. Some alien species are known to utilize the species as mounts.

Bulls tend to be slightly larger than the cows and both genders grow a pair of spiral horns. Most females achieve a single spiral during their lifetime, while a male can achieve two full spirals. These distinctive horns grow at the rate of one knob each year; thickness and condition of the horns are an indication of the Bantha's health and environment. Bulls fight each other by butting heads in ritual combat. Their horns can cause the pair to become entangled, which almost always means death for both Banthas, as the pair will soon collapse from exhaustion and eventually succumb to death by dehydration. Banthas use their dexterous, sensitive tongue to pull up grass and shrubs from the ground. Also located on the tongue are breathing and scent spiracles which allow it to determine if an object is edible without stooping or reaching awkwardly. Male Banthas raised their tongue as a way to signal their readiness to mate.

Banthas travel in herds of up to twenty-five individuals, led by the oldest, strongest female. A herd that has grown too large is split, with the second oldest and strongest female taking the new herd. The gestation period is 30 months and the newborn's birth weight is about 50 kilos.

Female Banthas produce blue milk from mammary glands that is consumed by sentients as a drink.

D6 Stats

 * Type: Herd animal
 * Planet of Origin: Unknown
 * DEXTERITY 2D
 * PERCEPTION 2D
 * STRENGTH 8D
 * Special Abilities:
 * Horns:STR-1D damage.
 * Trample: STR damage.
 * Move: 5
 * Size: 2-3 meters at the shoulder
 * Orneriness: 2D