Ovisaurus xerophilus
Desert Fleece
Field Report Summary
Physical Description
Reptilian body shape, quadrupedal, approximately 3 feet tall at the shoulder. Covered in overlapping, keratinous scales that resemble thick, crimped wool in texture and appearance. Coloration is sandy brown with darker brown bands. Has a short, blunt snout with nostrils positioned high for dust filtering. Possesses heat-sensing pits near the eyes, similar to pit vipers. Small, stubby legs with strong claws for digging. A short, thick tail used for balance.
Habitat
Arid deserts and rocky scrublands.
Dietary Behavior
Grazes on desert grasses and consumes moisture-rich succulents.
Evolutionary Origin
An evolutionary offshoot of sheep adapting to arid conditions by developing reptilian scales for water retention beneath its wool.
Behavioral Notes
Migrates nocturnally, following ancient subterranean water channels only detectable through subtle shifts in sand temperature.