Moroccobut

Moroccobut is a fictional mammal introduced in speculative field guides and world-building narratives. The article summarizes its described biology within that imaginary setting and is not based on a real species.

Morphology and appearance: The Moroccobut is about 40–50 cm in length with a compact body weighing roughly 1.5–2.5 kg. The fur is dense and variable in color, typically ranging from sandy beige to slate gray, with a lighter underbelly. It has rounded ears with dark tips, a short tufted tail, a pointed snout, and large whiskers. Its hind legs are strong for hopping, lending it a rabbit-like gait.

Habitat and range: In the fictional ecology, Moroccobuts inhabit scrubland and open woodland in the Atlas Mountains and nearby arid foothills of southern Morocco, at elevations from 300 to 1500 meters. They shelter in rock crevices and shallow burrows and are most active at dawn and dusk.

Behavior and diet: Moroccobuts are social, living in small family groups of up to eight. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on grasses, herbs, seeds, and occasional fruits, with roots taken during drier periods. They mark territory with scent glands and communicate through quiet vocalizations and tail gestures.

Reproduction and life cycle: Breeding occurs in spring. Gestation lasts about 40–44 days, with litters of 2–4 pups. Pups are weaned at 4–6 weeks and reach sexual maturity around 6–9 months.

Taxonomy and naming: In the fictional framework, the Moroccobut is placed in the monotypic family Moroccobutidae and the genus Moroccobut, with the described species Moroccobut moroccobut. The name blends geographic reference with a playful suffix.

Conservation and culture: As a fictional creature, there is no real-world conservation status. It appears in illustrative guides and stories within the imagined ecosystem.