Ninetales

First things first, this magnificent creature was suggested by for correctly guessing the identity of...lapras? I think it was lapras. In any case, thank you , it's been loads of fun.

The few of you who successfully guessed the identity of ninetales? and . As the first to guess ninetales' identity, will get to pick the subject of an upcoming "Biology of" project (though, I've yet to hear from her...hmm...check your messages, please, )

Now...what to say about the delightful nine-tailed fox (that isn't already stated in the entry)...hmm...

Well, obviously, it is very important that ninetails keep its body hydrated, because after only a half-dozen uses of its fire-breath ability before it starts to become dehydrated. Also, I should note that the bladder system does indeed have a muscle that closes the tube to prevent a backdraft...because lord knows a ninetales doesn't want it's skull to explode. It also has a pretty calloused mouth to protect against flames...

Hmm...I think that's it.

Enjoy, leave me love, and if you don't like it, bite me.

Ninetales, as well as all other pokémon, and the entire concept, belong to Nintendo and Gamefreak. Thank you, Nintendo and Gamefreak, for having such a fantastic idea.

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Transcription for the Hard of Seeing
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(from top to bottom, left to right)

No. 038 - Ninetales

"When threatened, a ninetales will often spew flames (much to the surprise of its attacker) from its mouth. At the back of its throat, a gland secretes a unique biofuel. This chemical will collect in a bladder-like organ near the soft palate, where it mixes withe enzymes that, when the fluid is sprayed, causes it to ignite in open air."

"Like most mammals, ninetales have a tapetum lucidum. This ocular tissue reflects light back through the retina, improving a ninetales low-light vision. Most ninetales' [eyes] glow a bright red when light is shined on [them]."

"Legends say that touching a ninetales tail (without consent) will result in a curse. While a 'curse' is a bit of an exaggeration, the scent glands in a ninetales's tails secrete a musk that can prove hallucinogenic in cases of prolonged exposure."

"The most noticeable feature of a ninetales's anatomy, a ninetales nine tails are quite a unique adaptation, with any number of applications. In addition to sexual display, the nine tails can also be used for shade. Their flexibility, more similar to that of felines than canines, can also aid in balanace, as well as intimidation."

"Aerodactyls populated mountainous regions, where they could climb to gain altitude, and begin gliding in search of prey."

"Aerodactyls were aggressive hunters, swooping in and going straight for the throat with their needle-like teeth."