korpusts

Korpusts are small, burrowing mammals native to the temperate forests of the Valen Reach in the fictional world of X. They have compact bodies, short legs, dense underfur, and a short, pointed snout. Adults measure roughly 12–16 cm in body length, with tails of 7–12 cm, and weigh about 70–130 g. The fur ranges from chestnut to grey, often with a lighter ventral side. Strong forelimbs with digging claws support their tunneling lifestyle.

They inhabit moist, loamy soil in mixed deciduous forests, forming intricate burrow networks with multiple entrances. They are primarily crepuscular-nocturnal, foraging for insects, seeds, berries, and fungi, and they store food in underground caches. They prefer areas with stable moisture and avoid extreme cold.

Social groups usually consist of 3–9 individuals and show cooperative care of offspring. Communication includes chirps and tail drumming. Breeding is seasonal, yielding a single litter of 2–4 pups after about 38 days of gestation; pups wean at 6–8 weeks and become independent within a few months.

Etymology and status: The name derives from the Korpu language, with kor meaning earth and pust meaning creature. In this setting, korpusts are not currently endangered, though habitat loss poses localized threats. Folklore often portrays korpusts as soil guardians linked to forest health.