What is a Helix?
Helix are medium-sized semi-aquatic creatures that live in coastal regions, usually in or around beaches. At first glance resemble a canine such as a fox or wolf in build. Unlike a fox or wolf however they have rather big ears which, whilst young, appear rather rabbit or antenna-like. Their long legs end in three-toed paws which are equipped with retractable claws for gripping and holding. They have a thick, oily coat which is waterproof. This helps to keep them warm them against the cold seashore waters of their habitat.
Primarily piscivorous meaning that they eat any fish, crustaceans or shellfish they happen upon, Helix are known to also prey upon sea birds (including chicks and eggs), seals and the carrion of beached dolphins, whales and sharks using their adapted jaws and teeth to pry open shells and to crunch bone and cartilage.
Perhaps the most notable feature of the Helix is the large bulky ammonite-like shell that they carry over their rumps which give them a shellfish-like appearane. Whilst newborns and juveniles use these shells as a form of protection, little is known about the use of the shell for older individuals. On a mature adult these hefty shells may contribute to up to 40% of the Helix's overall weight. To keep this shell nice and strong Helix will consume large quantities of calcium.
They are social within their own species, forming colonies of 5 - 20 individuals. Multiple colonies may co-exist on single beaches or coastlines. Helix are very vocal animals, using a wide range of vocalisation to communicate. The sounds they make are so diverse and frequently used that the Helix as a species may indeed have developed their form of sophisticated language.
Snow leopard-themed. This one even has a little snowflake ear-band =D
