An Observational Report on Zakkegs

[Sarias]

An Observational Report on Zakkegs - By Acolyte [REDACTED]

Zakkegs are a reptilian alpha predator species classified as non-sentient, uncommonly located on the planet Dxun. They are violent carnivores, with lightsaber resistant armor plating for skin. Mandalorian clans prize these creatures both as a right of passage to hunt and of course for their hide which can be used to make armor plating as a substitute for Beskar.



I will once again begin with standard appearance. Their armored skin ranges from shades of red to brown, even black in some places. The mating pair we encountered were roughly two and a half meters in height and over four meters in length, their age is yet undetermined so their development will need to be closely monitored. They have horns and spikes protruding from their head all the way down their backs to their tails, on their sides, and even their legs protecting their joints. The tails the size of a fifth limb, that is to say a small to medium sized tree trunk, with tremendous strength and control, the male specimen managing to knock back one of our hunting party with it. Large teeth, not razor sharp mind you, but the sheer strength of the bite would be enough to penetrate, break bones, even sever. A quadruped with three claws on each foot. Most noteworthy is that Zakkegs appear to be digitigrade meaning they walk on their digits, their legs appearing to bend backwards. This is a more common development among birds and mammals, not unheard of with reptilians but more rare. This also means that in spite of their size, they are no doubt exceptional runners, regrettably we were unable to see the beast in full run. I would like to observe a clock speed test as soon as possible, if permitted.



The juveniles we encountered were roughly half the adult’s height, less than one and a half meters, about the same in length. They did not yet have fully developed teeth, fortunate for me as one of them locked onto my arm with a vice grip leaving a very nasty bruise. Their armor plating was developed enough, however they did not have the same protruding horns and spikes as the fully grown mating pair. I suspect early development of armor is necessary considering the hostile environment of Dxun. The spikes and horns that later develop as the beasts mature no doubt acting as a natural defence against the Drexls, preventing them from simply swooping down and picking them up. Speaking of picking them up, as of submitting this report, I do not know what the beasts weigh, we were able to carry the juveniles but the adults required forklifts to transport. They are the size of small battle tanks, with enough natural armor to consider them so as well.

Moving on to psychology and behavior. Zakkegs are solitary creatures, found more often than not alone, unless in family units or in mating pairs. We were lucky enough to find a family with three juveniles. I am unsure as to the territorial habits of Zakkegs. When we encountered the male it was already in combat with a Mandalorian Aspirant so I did not observe which instigated the fight. When we subdued the male we moved onto the cave where the female and juveniles called home. This is where their behavior gets interesting. The male by all observations was more aggressive and territorial. The female however did not engage us at all, remaining stationary between us and her young. Even though these are non-sentient beasts, there is clearly a strong maternal instinct to protect their offspring. She was notably less aggressive, far easier to capture in spite of her protective instincts. The juveniles were delightfully aggressive as well. Putting up a valiant fight, having to be rendered unconscious for transport as well. Considering their aggressive tendencies, backed up by their size and strength special considerations must be made for keeping them in captivity.

As stated, due to their strength, size, and temperament, I would suggest the adults be kept in large paddocks with exceptionally strong fencing. Anatomically there’s nothing to indicate they are good climbers or jumpers but we shouldn’t take any chances without further observation. As upsetting as this may be to the adults, I hypothesize that separating the offspring will make it much easier to domesticate them. Their paternal instincts are a good indication of mild intelligence, certainly enough to domesticate, even if they’re not sentient, and the parents may adversely influence the juveniles to be less amiable for bonding. Their natural habitat being a temperate jungle, I believe they will be adaptable to colder and warmer climates so there should be no emergent need to create an artificial environment for them. Lastly, as far as feeding is concerned, they are alpha-predators, their diet consisting of smaller and, or, weaker fauna. Perhaps mating pairs of Cannoks should be captured to breed a more desirable food supply, as treats, to aid in domestication.

This concludes my initial report.

As always addendums and, or, corrections will be added, or amended, pending further observation and interaction.

Force Serve,

-Acolyte [REDACTED]