Kljunim

kljunim is a small nocturnal mammal endemic to the Nystral archipelago, a fictional group of islands described in regional folklore and scientific catalogs. It occupies tropical and subtropical forests, mangroves, and secondary woodlands across three main islands, from sea level to about 900 meters.

Taxonomy and name: Kljunimus noctis is the scientific name commonly used by researchers, with kljunim serving as the common name. The genus Kljunimus is the sole member of the family Kljunimidae, placing it in a distinct lineage within the imaginary order Dromotheria. The term kljunim is derived from the Nystralian word for twilight, reflecting its crepuscular and nocturnal habits.

Description: Kljunim is a small to medium-sized marsupial-like mammal, measuring 10–18 cm in body length, with a prehensile tail about 15–25 cm long. It has dense, slate-brown fur with a lighter ventral side. The forelimbs are adapted for climbing, and sharp claws assist in grasping branches. It emits a high-pitched trill to communicate.

Behavior and diet: It is largely solitary, with individuals maintaining small overlapping home ranges. It is omnivorous, feeding on insects, fruit, nectar, and occasionally small lizards. Activity peaks at night, but crepuscular hours around dusk and dawn are common. Reproduction is seasonal, with small litters of 1–2 offspring after a gestation of around 40 days.

Conservation and human context: The kljunim is listed as Endangered in local assessments, primarily due to habitat loss from logging and expanding agriculture, and predation by introduced species. Conservation measures include forest protection, the establishment of reserves, and ex-situ breeding programs. In Nystral culture, the kljunim is associated with twilight and is featured in folk stories.