Eight Feathery Friends for Your Consideration

     All of us are familiar with the White Weewoo, the beloved symbol of the Neopian Times. For over a decade, the iconic Petpet's image has adorned the corners of our pages with its beady-eyed charm, winning the hearts of many a reader over the years. But in celebration of the Times’ 800th issue, now’s a good time as any to shine a light onto the Weewoo’s less-appreciated (but still just as lovable) avian cousins, while we give our old mascot some well-deserved rest plus a glass of cool lemonade--they’ve been working hard delivering papers for so long, after all!

     Here are eight other Petpet species (one for every 100 issues of the NT) that will fit right in at your Neohome. They come from a variety of regions and each has its own set of defining characteristics, so you can find the best fit for you and your family. Many of them can even be painted white with a White Petpet Paint Brush, as an homage to our original feathered friend. Without further ado, let’s get started!

     First up in the spotlight, we have the Tuceet. Native to the jungles of Geraptiku, this four-legged Petpet will thrive in any warm climate and a steady diet of fruit. Though most Tuceets have vibrant plumage and beaks, you can paint it with a White Petpet Paint Brush if you wish to mirror the NT mascot’s snowy-white look. Tuceets are by nature very quiet; they rarely ever make more than a squawk, making them perfect for both NT authors and readers who prefer a peaceful work environment.

     Hailing from Krawk Island, we have the Kateil, often seen perching on the shoulders of pirate captains. Once you bury this association, however, you will see that Kateils are outstanding companions for any Neopet: attentive and inquisitive little fellows, they quickly pick up on new tricks. With practice, they may even mimic Neopet speech. They thrive on attention and love being around others of their species, but will take just as easily to a Neopet owner. Be aware that they have a penchant for collecting shiny items, so keep your Neopoints and doubloons secured away.

      Next up is the Tomamu, who you might have trouble spotting through all the foliage and fog. This exotic Petpet roosts near the waterfalls that crisscross Shenkuu’s scenic mountains, where they hunt their favorite food: fish. Much like the environment of its homeland, the Tomamu is tranquil and disciplined… as long as it’s not hungry. Tomamus are excellent Petpets for appreciators of fine aesthetics and beauty, their simple and timeless black-and-white color scheme accented by the small dash of red on their foreheads.

      Ahh, the Whoot, a rather old variety of Petpet that predates even the Weewoo in the timeline of Neopets history. Like the Tomamu, Whoots have an additional pair of arm-like limbs in addition to a set of fully-functional wings, which they use to soar soundlessly through the night. They are bright in both eyesight and in wits. As an extra perk, they possess an almost supernatural ability to detect the Pant Devil’s presence, so you can stroll around Neopia carrying as many items as you darn well please without worry of getting any of them stolen. Unfortunately, Whoots do not have a white color available (yet) but their vintage shade of brown is just as charming, in my opinion.

      Then we have the Crokabek, who suffers from a bit of an image problem. Their sharp beaks and feathers form a frightening, jagged silhouette, and their tendency to peer down from castle walls like shadowy gargoyles certainly do not help cement a good image with the public. There’s even a book dedicated to explaining how to steer clear of them! Despite the unwarranted societal vitriol, Crokabeks CAN and WILL become loving Petpets, if you just give them a chance. You also have the option of painting them, if you feel so inclined to give them a more friendly vibe.

      Our next feathery pal is the Horus, who comes in a multitude of shades from the original reddish brown to the festive Christmas, complete with oversize holiday headwear. You cannot paint your Horus white; however, the

     Yellow Horus sports a rich golden yellow paired with some white on its head, for the fans of the White Weewoo’s white with yellow accents. A classic image of the Lost Desert, a Horus is a sophisticated and poised breed. It may even help you with writing your next Neopian Times article, for it is exceedingly smart!

      Journey to the other side of the Neopian globe over to Tyrannia (if you can’t make the trip, a neighborhood Petpet store will do) to meet the friendly Airax. Their long, slender legs and wide wingspans make them masters of both land and air. They are armed with sharp, toothed beaks for catching prey in the plains, but they are gentle around their owners. Outgoing and affectionate, an Airax will stick to your side like glue--you might even have trouble getting them to leave you alone! Their only drawback is that they don’t do well in cold or rain, so make sure to keep an Airax indoors during winter months and in harsher weather.

      Last, but certainly not least, is the dignified Mallard. Since Mallards are so common throughout Neopia, they are easily overlooked despite their many good points. I say they are the ideal Petpets! Sure, they have a goofy waddle, but Mallards are fluffy, easy to care for, fun to look after, and a loyal friend. There’s a reason so many young Neopets start out with a Mallard as their first non-cardboard Petpet. Need another plus? Mallards are 100% waterproof. Cardboard Petpets? Not so much.

      This concludes my list of eight Petpet species who deserve your attention. I heavily encourage you to go out exploring around Neopia to see these lovely Petpets for yourself. There are so many species waiting to be found and loved. While the White Weewoo is an irreplaceable icon for the Neopian Times, your heart always has room for a new friend. After all, reading the paper is more fun with a birdy buddy!