Bartailed

Bartailed is a fictional species of small nocturnal arboreal mammal described in field guides for the fantasy world of Aridia. The name derives from its tail, which is distinctly barred with alternating dark and light rings.

Description: Adults are about 12–15 cm long with a 18–25 cm tail. Fur is olive-brown above and paler below. The tail bears 5–7 dark bands separated by pale interbands. Ears are rounded; limbs are slender with sharp claws for climbing. Sexual dimorphism is minimal.

Distribution and habitat: Bartailed is endemic to montane broadleaf forests on the island of Nyra in Aridia, at elevations of roughly 900–2,200 m. It favors mid-canopy perches and dense understory, avoiding open areas.

Ecology and behavior: It is primarily nocturnal and solitary, though pairs may form during breeding. Diet consists of insects, fruit, nectar, and seeds. The tail aids balance and is used in visual signaling among individuals.

Reproduction: Breeding occurs seasonally with 1–2 offspring per litter. Gestation lasts about 38–42 days; weaning at 6–8 weeks. Juvenile dispersal begins at a few months old.

Conservation and taxonomy: In the in-world setting, Bartailed is listed as Vulnerable due to habitat loss and introduced predators. Population data are limited. In fictional taxonomy, it is placed in order Rodentia, family Muridae, genus Bartulus, species Bartulus tailedus, with etymology anchored in its barred tail.