hugast

A hugast is a fictional creature appearing in the fantasy novel "The Serpent's Coil" by Marcus Vance. These beings are described as small, furry mammals that inhabit the ancient forests of Eldoria. They are known for their distinctive, long snouts which they use to root for insects and grubs in the forest floor. Hugasts are typically solitary creatures, though they are known to gather in small family groups during the mating season. Their fur is a mottled brown and green, providing excellent camouflage among the trees and undergrowth.

Physically, hugasts are roughly the size of a badger, with short, sturdy legs and sharp claws adapted for digging. They possess large, sensitive ears that can detect the slightest rustling of leaves, and their eyes are dark and beady, suited for navigating the dim light of the forest. Their diet consists primarily of invertebrates, but they have also been observed consuming berries and fungi when insect populations are low. In "The Serpent's Coil," hugasts are portrayed as generally timid and non-aggressive, preferring to flee from danger rather than confront it. However, when cornered, they can emit a surprisingly loud, high-pitched squeal that can startle predators. They are a common, though often unseen, part of the Eldorian ecosystem.