On the Origin of Species: Sandshrew and Sandslash: Difference between revisions

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discusslink=63797 |
discusslink=63797 |
sourcetype=column-bn |
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sourcename=George Hutcheon |
sourcename=Xan Hutcheon |
sourcelink=User:George_Hutcheon |
sourcelink=User:Xan_Hutcheon |
tagline=Investigating the inspirations behind Pokémon |
tagline=Investigating the inspirations behind Pokémon |
blurb=In another column exploring the likely cultural and zoological origins of Pokémon species, we take a look at Sandshrew and Sandslash. }}
blurb=In another column exploring the likely cultural and zoological origins of Pokémon species, we take a look at Sandshrew and Sandslash. }}
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Another remarkable feature of the pangolin is its tail. In some cases, the tail makes up two thirds of the body length, and certain species, such as the tree pangolin (''Manis tricuspis''), are able to use their tails to hang from tree branches while they strip away bark with their front claws, in search of insects. The long tail also acts as a useful counterweight, enabling them to walk on their hind legs if necessary.
Another remarkable feature of the pangolin is its tail. In some cases, the tail makes up two thirds of the body length, and certain species, such as the tree pangolin (''Manis tricuspis''), are able to use their tails to hang from tree branches while they strip away bark with their front claws, in search of insects. The long tail also acts as a useful counterweight, enabling them to walk on their hind legs if necessary.


Though Sandshrew and Sandslash are obviously {{type2|Ground}}s, and their Pokédex entries describe them as favoring deserts, pangolins are quite varied in their preferred habitats, and are found across Africa and Asia in environments ranging from forests to savannas. Many species do live in burrows and favor sandy soil, much like their Pokémon counterparts, but pangolins don't share Sandshrew's aversion to water: some species are actually accomplished swimmers, and can fill their stomachs with air to increase their buoyancy.
Though Sandshrew and Sandslash are obviously {{type|Ground}}s, and their Pokédex entries describe them as favoring deserts, pangolins are quite varied in their preferred habitats, and are found across Africa and Asia in environments ranging from forests to savannas. Many species do live in burrows and favor sandy soil, much like their Pokémon counterparts, but pangolins don't share Sandshrew's aversion to water: some species are actually accomplished swimmers, and can fill their stomachs with air to increase their buoyancy.


It's worth mentioning that many fans associate Sandshrew and Sandslash with armadillos, and it's not too difficult to see why. They have a similar appearance to pangolins, similar habits, and are more commonly known to Western players due to their presence in the Americas. The armadillo's armor, however, comprises a bony 'shell' rather than individual plates, and such plates are a key element in the designs of these Pokémon, being especially obvious in Sandslash. Further proof of the relationship can be found in Sandslash's Japanese name, ''Sandpan'' (サンドパン), which incorporates the 'pan' of 'pangolin'.
It's worth mentioning that many fans associate Sandshrew and Sandslash with armadillos, and it's not too difficult to see why. They have a similar appearance to pangolins, similar habits, and are more commonly known to Western players due to their presence in the Americas. The armadillo's armor, however, comprises a bony 'shell' rather than individual plates, and such plates are a key element in the designs of these Pokémon, being especially obvious in Sandslash. Further proof of the relationship can be found in Sandslash's Japanese name, ''Sandpan'' (サンドパン), which incorporates the 'pan' of 'pangolin'.


I've often wondered why the pangolin isn't a more widely-known creature. It has so many fascinating quirks, and is so undeniably cute that it seems as if it should be more popular. Perhaps their obscurity is partly a result of the difficulties inherent in keeping them in captivity: they tend not to thrive in zoos, and so the average person is unlikely to encounter one. Breeding studies are ongoing, however, and may become increasingly necessary. Sadly, pangolins in the wild are threatened both by habitat loss and hunting, so an enhanced understanding of their ways may ultimately prove vital in protecting these unashamedly odd mammals.
I've often wondered why the pangolin isn't a more widely-known creature. It has so many fascinating quirks, and is so undeniably cute that it seems as if it should be more popular. Perhaps their obscurity is partly a result of the difficulties inherent in keeping them in captivity: they tend not to thrive in zoos, and so the average person is unlikely to encounter one. Breeding studies are ongoing, however, and may become increasingly necessary. Sadly, pangolins in the wild are threatened both by habitat loss and hunting, so an enhanced understanding of their ways may ultimately prove vital in protecting these unashamedly odd mammals.
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