Animagus Registry #426 - #446
#426 - truebornstark - European Pine Marten
At first glance, I wasn’t overly satisfied with any of my choices for Animagus. I had no idea what a Pine Marten or Selkirk Rex even were, and hadn’t ever particularly cared for deer or rabbits beyond thinking they were cute. Then I really sat down in order to read more about each individual animal. The more I read, the more I realized that these choices were, in fact, rather perfect for me. Still, there was one that stood out more than the others. After looking them over one last time, I knew which animal was mine: the Pine Marten, specifically the European Pine Marten.
I have always found weasels to be fascinating creatures, who are misunderstood and unfairly treated as horrible enough to even have it’s name used as an insult. I can’t begin to tell you how many times I’ve heard someone call another person a “weasel” in order to make them feel badly about themselves. I, also, have been misunderstood, though never in a way that would make someone say, “Oh, you’re a Dany, aren’t you?” in order to imply that I’m being underhanded and generally slimy in a situation. Regardless, I can’t imagine they’d like having such characteristics so closely related with their names. It’s somewhat endeared them to me over the years.
Aside from that, there are quite a few other reasons that I feel this animal is mine. Like the Pine Marten, who has glossy brown fur, I have naturally brown hair. I might not classify it as glossy, but at the very least our coloring matches in that aspect. Plus, we’re both most active at night and dusk. So, that also fits perfectly. As is the fact that these beautiful animals live in heavily wooded areas, where I would feel the most at home, and are relatively quick runners on the ground. I’d definitely need to be able to run somewhat fast in order to feel safe. And did I mention that they have this adorable habit of being destructive and chewing on the window wipers of cars and garden hoses? Oddly, I’d probably love doing that.
All in all, I think it’s pretty clear that the Pine Marten and I are simply meant to be.
Dany, Ravenclaw
2011-02-01
#427 - pixie_riot - Malayan Tiger
A tiger! Perhaps my favourite animal in the world, and my nickname from my love as well. I have always been fascinated with cats, I collect everything tiger-related, and am saving for a huge, beautiful tiger tattoo on my vacation this summer, so I was absolutely thrilled to see a tiger, especially a beautiful and rare one, on my list of choices. I did read and think about each of them, of course, but my mind was made up on the Malayan Tiger right from the start because it just feels right.
There are a lot of reasons why this animal suits me, and the appearance is certainly one of them! I am a bright and colourful person, and I even dye my hair red or orange most of the time. I'm covered from head to toe in tattoos that are completely unique to me, as the stripes of each tiger are unique to that animal. They are visually arresting, eyecatching, and will stop people in their track just to look or even stare.
I pride myself on being a unique person, and these animals (which were only declared a full subspecies in 2004) are certainly unique and rare, as at most recent estimates there are between 500 and 800 of them in the world. They were hunted for a long time, and the Malaysian government even offered a bounty for any Malayan Tiger pelt that was turned in to them. At the risk of sounding a little bit emo, the prejudice against tigers (how they're seen as mankillers and killed because of it) reminds me of the prejudice that I can be subject to as a person who is different in so many ways.
And oh, how these amazing animals sleep. I mean, really, tigers (and cats of any other sort) really, really know how to sleep. Every day they spend more time sleeping than they do awake, either snoozing in the shade to keep cool or napping in a sunbeam. I love to sleep, to the extent that it drives my partner crazy (and pleases my dogs because they like to curl up with me to sleep, day or night) and so an animal that naps so much is a pretty perfect fit for me.
So I would certainly like to thank whoever suggested the Malayan Tiger as an animagus form for me, because this really is an animal that I can feel one with, and feel free and comfortable in being.
Pixie, Slytherin
2011-01-30
#428 - mop_cat - Bat-Eared Fox
Ok, so, when I first saw my choices I geeked out and mentally cataloged every single fact I knew about each animal -- this is how a childhood obsession with animals renders one’s mind. After that initial thought though, it was the Bat Eared Fox that really stood out to me.
I did the expected go find out every single thing Wikipedia has to say about each of the animals and I must admit, they all seemed to fit in someway or form. It was the fox though, that I kept coming back to.
Physically, the Bat-eared Fox has a few features I can easily relate to. The colouring for one: the foxes have majority of their bodies covered in tawny fur, appearing silver depending on the distance. My own hair is blonde in colour, and at certain moments (usually while in the sun) can appear a dull silver in colour. Also, the Bat-eared fox has black socks, tip of the tail and markings on the face. GUESS WHO’S GLASSES ALSO MAKE BLACK MARKINGS ALL OVER THEIR FACE? That’s right, I found it fitting. My average height is another feature I can relate to the fox with. At an average of 55cm, the Bat-eared Fox is neither the smallest one of it’s family, nor the largest.
I’m not even going to comment on the ears: I’m pretty sure they speak for themselves.
Behaviour wise, this animal is practically me. An insomniac nocturnal animal being one of the main things I noticed. AS I DOVE DEEPER THOUGH, the Bat-eared Fox’s social behaviour is an uncanny relation to mine. They don’t live in large families and usually consist of several lovers and their pups. These foxes are also known to strike out on their own, so basically, their social behaviour is a complete echo of my own. I have a few close friends and quite frequently enjoy being alone I’d be sure to keep my non-existent kids with me too.
Eating habits. I EAT, THE FOX EATS. WE WERE MADE FOR EACH OTHER. No, um, the point I’m trying to make here is that the eating habits of the Bat-eared Fox sets it a little aside from other fox species. Most foxes live of small game (birds, rodents, other such things that are small). MY FOX THOUGH eats mainly insects and fruits. I, myself, am a vegetarian. Now, I don’t eat insects, but it still sets me that tiny bit apart from the society I live in.
Ever since I was a young kid, I always asked my dad to get me a pet fox. I’ve always been drawn to them, despite never seeing one and even my favourite toy was a little wooden fox. Overall, foxes are known for their cunning and intelligence (BAM, I am a Ravenclaw) and are often portrayed as such. The Bat-eared Fox though, is that little bit more unique than other foxes and fiercely independent, two qualities I also possess and I’d be utterly honoured to take the Bat-eared Fox as my animagus.
Ellie, Ravenclaw
2011-02-04
#429 - cyshobbitlass - Turkish Van
I was prejudiced before even seeing my animagus form choices. I knew I wanted a domestic cat if possible and I was pretty sure Turkish Van was a breed. Still, I was determined to be fair. I'd look at each of my choices. I'd give them a shot. Then I'd go back to the Van.
I could see which beavers had been picked, but I saw that as more my Hufflepuff self. I'm not quite that hard working. The lion certainly did my Gryffindor heart proud and I considered it for a while. But lions are a bit too violent for me to really feel comfortable as one. It didn't seem quite right, though it did have some really interesting reasoning that made me feel flattered. And then there was the mink. Cute as it is, I couldn't help thinking of people killing and wearing me. Frankly, the associate with fur was too creepy for me to truly consider that option.
So there I was, back at the Van and I kept thinking "this is me". First of all, the some of the longer furred Vans put me in mind of my childhood cat. He was a mess of organe fur and the embodiment of feline love in my early life. When he died when I was ten, I think my childhood really ended. It was an honor to think of myself being a little bit like him. Then there was the fact that the Van often has orange markings. Natural brunette I may be, but I'm deeply obsessed with red heads. And their fur is long, their bodies are just a bit larger. All like me.
But more than superficial reasons and my deep personal connection with domestic cats in general, Vans seem to share my personality. They love the water and are natural swimmers. I wish I were on the beach right now, or at least had time to take a bubble bath. They are curious, intelligent and very friendly with their families, definitely how I like to think of myself.
All in all, I just feel in my soul I am a pretty, long haired house cat. I'm just thrilled that the community helped me see which one. It's simply a bonus that my human eyes, which are, if I do say so myself, quite pretty, get to be transformed into something legendary like the heterochromia iridis in Vans. I feel mystical. I feel special. But I also feel right as a Van. Like I'm not faking anything, but just discovering an awesome side to myself.
Jasmine, Gryffindor
2011-02-17
#430 - lapiduslazuli - Argentine Puma
I loved all my choices! After much thought I decided to go with the Argentine puma, Felis concolor cabrerae. Even though I had stressed that the most important consideration was being equally adept in land, sea, and air environments (the Fishing Bulldog Bat was a very close second, especially since it had fur, which I had also specified that I wanted), I decided that my connection to and love of cats was just too great to ignore. I'll just have to stay away from any cliffs!
As I said, it was basically a choice between the Fishing Bulldog Bat and the Argentine puma. The Fishing Bulldog Bat can fly of course, and as the name suggests, it preys mainly on water creatures, which I thought was very cool. However, even though those were very attractive, I decided that I could forego those advantages in adaptation in favor of how I felt that it was instinctively right in my heart to choose the puma.
The Argentine puma (the cougar in general really) is known for being an adaptable generalist species. Its adaptability also means that it will eat almost any animal it catches, from insects to large hoofed animal. I approve of that sort of fierce practicality in an animal. It is an also ambush rather than a sprinter hunter. I like how it conserves its energy! The puma also has the largest range of any wild land animal in the Americas, being very adapted to many kinds of environments, which means that there is a very good chance that I will end up in the hot environments I love so much. Obviously the Argentine puma would be found in Argentina, where I've always wanted to visit! I'd also be happy in any other hot tropical environment.
The puma is at the top of its food chain; no one hunts it. What's more, it competes with other dangerous predators for prey, such as the grey wolf, American black bear, and grizzly bear, all of which I also stated that I felt a connection with. I'd be happy to be in their company (even though we wouldn't like each other if I were in Animagus form!). Pumas and wolves have been known to kill each other, and even though I love wolves, I'd be happy to know that I were ably equipped to defend myself in a fight. Also, the puma is mostly a solitary animal; I had stated in my application that were I in Animagus form I'd be mostly solitary as well, probably because I'd have to accomplish some sort of task - it'd be just as well if other actual pumas left me alone.
Finally, what I most admire in the puma is its grace, and the slender, agile skeletal structure and musculature that allows it to be so. I love how it has some of the largest paws of big cats which allows it to clutch and hold on to wriggly prey. It also has proportionally the largest hind legs for great leaping and short sprints (even though it doesn't like to run at least it has the potential for it ;-p). These legs also allow it to climb trees (about the closest I'll get to flying in this form) and swim well if it absolutely must. I was very happy to be reminded that Incas and Moche peoples also mythologically admired the puma and it was associated with Viracocha, the Inca god of sky and thunder.
L. Lazuli, Slytherin
2011-02-23
#431 - senslogine - Melanistic Bobcat
When I saw my choices, I was not entirely sure where to go. I was immediately drawn to the Bobcat and Leopard, but I also couldn’t help but consider the Northern Spotted Owl. However, when I was able to read the reasons people voted for specific animals, I was immediately certain of the Melanistic Bobcat.
seserakh explained that bobcats are friendly with other bobcats but do not actively seek company unless they’re looking for a mate. I am a semi-social person, and friendly, but I don’t have close friends. kitrinlu pointed out that bobcats typically spend their time alone but do occasionally hunt in groups. I think this definitely fits me: I am usually alone but I do sometimes travel with friends. I also spend a lot of time with my significant other, which I think is typical of the bobcat as well.
The bobcat’s thick mane of fur, also mentioned by seserakh definitely jives with my thick hair. Furthermore, the bobcat is a medium to large animal, but not too large or too small. It’s thin and athletic. I am thin, athletic (and I wish I were fast…haha). I’m a quiet person, and I think as an animagus this would be further accentuated within an ability to be sneaky.
Bobcats dwell in the forest. Specifically, the animagus form I chose dwells typically in the temperate redwood forest which happens to be constantly misty and foggy (as mentioned by hyperform. I prefer forests and I’ve always preferred autumn foggy temperate days and this jives well with the bobcat.
I’ve chosen to be a mealnistic bobcat in part because I do not identify with the markings of the bobcat. I couldn’t seem myself as having that particular appearance. When I discovered that melanistic bobcats have been discovered in Florida and other areas, I knew that I had to be one of those. It sealed the deal of me becoming a bobcat. I have darker brown hair and pale skin and I think this translates well into the dark form of the mealnistic bobcat.
Chelsea, Ravenclaw
2011-02-19
#432 - thedreamisreal - Koala
I was very excited to receive my choices for animagus! I was actually quite surprised by the Porcupine selection and cooed at the Chinchilla as well. I had no idea what a Ecuadorian White Fronted Capuchin was, and I enjoyed looking up what the animal was in the end-such a darling little monkey! However, once I read over Koala I just knew that I'd end up choosing the animal for my animagus!
Besides knowing that they like some strange smelling leaf and possessing a general idea of what they look like, my knowledge of the Koala was very limited. For instance, my instinct is to call them "Koala bears" when they aren't bears at all! The first thing I learned was that koala, etymologically, comes from an aboriginal word which roughly translate to "no drink". That struck a chord with me-I'm constantly needing reminders to drink and go days without anything but a few sips from a water fountain! That isn't to say koalas don't drink at all, they do drink at streams, but they gain most of their water from the eucalyptus leaves.
What also struck me was that the koala is known as a silent animal. Some days I go the entire day without speaking. I may not speak any more than 10-15 sentences in a day! They also say that when stressed the koala may issue a cry that sounds like that of a human baby. This relates to me in my only memory of screaming in my life. I don't scream ever, but the one time I do remember screaming was during the car crash I was in when I was nine years old, certainly a stressful moment for me at the time!
Koalas sleep 16-18 hours a day! Oh, how I love to sleep! If I was truly able to sleep that long, I would. I could stay in bed all day and then some at times. I have a low energy level, something my parents have commented on time and time again. Koalas have a similarly low energy level. In the end, they are mostly nocturnal animals, which is definitely me-I hate mornings with a burning passion. They spend about 3-5 hours each day eating. I love sitting at long meals, slowly eating each food group in front of me. Although I have a wider diet and a bigger metabolism than a typical koala, I definitely relate to taking longer to eat their food throughout the day. Once, my family and I went to a buffet style restaurant and definitely stayed 2-3 hours in the end!
I asked for an animagus that was small, but also mentioned that climbing trees would be cool. The koala certainly isn't the smallest of animals, but it's smaller than most and can climb trees! The koala is also mentioned as having an excellent sense of balance, a trait that we both share. I think what really struck me as a big resounding YES as to why I should choose this animal as my animagus was reading that koalas are solitary animals. Being alone is my paradise. In the end, I am thrilled to have the iconic koala as my animagus, and sincerely thank whoever chose this animal for me!
Beth, Ravenclaw
2011-02-16
#433 - hyperform - Jackson's Chameleon
I loved the chameleon from the second I saw it. I mean, it's got sweet triceratops horns. I like how they change color; and they don't even change color for concealment, they change color as dominance displays. That's hilarious. They do look really funny, their eyes roll around independently so one eye can look forward, the other back, one eye up, the other down, and that's really cool. I'd love to have independent movement on my eyes. They're great climbers, they are able to hold on well, and so even though I don't like heights, if I was more assured at being able to hold on to whatever I was climbing I'm sure it would be better. And they have cool tails. They are small, and so they can be inconspicuous, which was one of my major criteria. And they have become an invasive species in Hawaii. I want to go to Hawaii. Chameleons are most at home amidst lush foliage, and with my hobby raising orchids and other tropical plants, there would not much difference.
I'm excluding the Pogona and Nile Crocodile right away because, in the case of the first, they are arid-weather creatures, and I don't like arid weather. I would never want to be in the sort of habitat that they live. In the case of the Crocodile, it seems like it's a little unwieldy. Those things are HUGE, and they're OBVIOUS, and most of the time, they're also slow (but capable of bursts of great speed, over short distances, over flat land, in a straight line). And Egypt is another mostly arid environment, which again is excluded by my climate preferences.
This leaves the King Cobra and the Jackson's Chameleon, which was a really tough choice for me. Not only are King Cobra's deadly, fast movers, great concealers, great climbers, and live in lush tropical environments, but they are SNAKES, which of course appeals to the Slytherin in me very much. Although I do not, in the end, fancy myself a Parselmouth, and I must say I do not feel nearly the affinity for snakes as I do for other herpetiles generally, and reptiles specifically. I'm not sure if chameleons need to sun themselves, I assume they do because they're reptiles, but you can be assured that even if they don't, I still would find a nice sunny rock somewhere and get warm in my animagus form. I like most of all the incredible number of colors chameleons can turn; other color changing lizards like anoles just have green or brown, but chameleons can turn blue, black, yellow, and sometimes crazier colors like red or pink or turquoise. I wonder, given the chromatic flexibility, whether I could change color and pattern to match the texture of a castle wall, or a branch of a tree. These are very appealing qualities. While chameleons are very, very slow, and thus don't have the quality of expeditious retreat that the King Cobra does, I wouldn't really have much need for sudden escape in any sort of activities I may perform in my animal alter-ego. The only other major winning quality for the King Cobra would be slithering along inside the pipes and whispering "KILL! KILL!" and giving myself a good laugh. But seriously, of the four choices, I had to only ponder a quick moment when I knew what my serious choice should be. And I will pretend that my chameleon form can spit acid, turn people to stone, and stop time. Because chameleons do that.
Hyperform, Slytherin
2011-02-16
#434 - baterina_1234 - Fisher's Lovebird
This lovebird didn't make such a big impression on me when I first saw it. In fact, at first glance, I thought the Savannah was perfect for me.
However, as I read through wikipedia, I realized how alike the Fischer's Lovebird and I was. For one, it's difficult for us to be left alone. We need constant attention. When we're alone, we start to do stupid things that we'll get addicted too. But, err, of course, I don't pluck my feathers, and the lovebird sure doesn't draw all over their arms/bites their nails. It's hard for us to stop these addictions unless we're properly distracted.
Speaking of addictions, the Fischer's love chewing on things. *cough*
The Fischer's is also active and needs a roomy place. I absolutely love roomy places and I'm used to it. I need to be able to go around my village or else I'll get bored and depressed. The lovebird is the same. We also get into a lot of trouble once we're actually out. You can't keep us in, because we like getting what we want. We'll figure it out sooner or later, because we're both very smart. :D
Female Fischer's are also more aggressive and territorial than males. I'm a possessive girl. ;)
It takes a while for both of us to really trust somebody. (But well, I'm faster than the Fischer's Lovebird.)
When we're out somewhere, we both explore it. As I've said, we like chewing things, being playful and what not. Being playful, we both get bored easily and need a lot of toys/entertainment around. I can really relate this!
I also really love the sun! After taking a bath, Fischer's like sunning themselves. I enjoy taking baths (just not in deep stuff) and Fischer's seem to like them too. We're also very loud and have a lot to say, being kind of bossy unless we're taught not to.
Fischer's are known to want to build nests--to breed/mate. All my life, I've wanted kids so bad. I've wanted to get married and have that white picket fence. (Just without the fence itself, because ugh. Enclosed spaces.) I've wanted love. And guess what, I can actually be a Lovebird. This is actually what moved me to choose the Lovebird. Kids are my motivation in life. *shrug*
To be honest, I wrote two different essays. One for the Savannah cat and another for the Fischer's lovebird. The moment I got past the 2nd paragraph, I realized how alike this lovebird and I were. I was using 'us' and 'we'. That was like an unconscious desire to be this lovebird.
Essa, Gryffindor
2011-03-18
#435 - pointblankdarcy - Alaskan Malamute
I've always felt a connection with wolves and dogs (especially Huskies) since I was young, and especially after I read White Fang and The Call of the Wild by Jack London. As I mentioned in my application, I find dogs friendly, non-judgemental, fun and warm. As for wolves, I love their primal instinct, elegance and raw emotion. Both canines also exude wisdom and strength that I admire a lot. Hence, when the choices post was up, and I saw Alaskan Malamute, which is described as a wolf-like dog, I knew right off the bat that I was going to choose that for my Animagus form.
In terms of appearance, I do share some features. (My ears are upright for instance.) The Malamute's coat is a dense one, which matches my naturally thick hair. It's also described as having eyes that are always various shades of brown, which fits nicely with my dark brown eyes.
I think that my temperament matches well with the Alaskan Malamute. It is intelligent and resourceful, but is widely believed to be one of the most difficult dog breeds to train, unless it's provided with fun and non-repetitive activities. For me, personally, I'm willing to work and to study, but honestly can get bored really fast, especially when doing things over and over. I need a challenge, intellectually, and I think that this particular part of me resounds in the Alaskan Malamute.
This breed is also loyal to and fond of people, which makes them good family dogs. This appeals to me, because loyalty is something I cherish fiercely, and I love having a small group of friends and family around me. Malamutes are also not barky, and are fairly quiet, and this fits me because I tend to be on the quiet side as well. I don't howl though. (Well, except in the shower.)
rainbowpuzzle wrote in her vote something that felt really right. She said that the Malamute is a sled-dog, pulling sleds for long distances in cold weather and snow. She said that the sensation of running in the Alaskan cold would be similar to what I described as one of my favourite feelings, which is to feel the wind whooshing in my ears and revelling in freedom. I love this because I think it really fits, and I can really imagine myself as a Malamute running through the snow.
I am also excited to choose this dog as my form because its history is so wonderful. The Malamute is a descendant of dogs that fulfilled a companion role to Inuits. Their relationship of interdependency helped them both to flourish in the harsh lands they lived in. I admire that relationship a lot. The fact that the Malamute was used in WWII as a search and rescue dog, as well as a heavy freighting dog, is astonishing and really beautiful. I admire their strength and selflessness. I also love the fact that the Malamute is one of the oldest breeds of dog and that it is possibly the closest living relative to the "First Dog".
It's distinguished history, combined with its temperament and appearance, is why I am humbled and honoured to choose the Alaskan Malamute as my Animagus form.
Nadia, Ravenclaw
2011-03-17
#436 - kitty_catline - Roe Deer
When I first saw my choices, I felt immediately drawn to both the Ulysses Butterfly and the Roe Deer. I feel such a strong connection to both, and it took my quite a while to decide on a final form. However, after much consideration and research, I have decided to go with the Roe Deer as my Animagus form.
In my application, I mentioned wanting to be a more earth-bound creature, and that while I like to be in groups, I enjoy my alone time too. Deer in general reflect this, as they are animals of the earthy forest, but Roe Deer especially fit this: they are generally solitary animals, who occasionally form small groups in winter. I was actually pretty surprised when I read this, because this fits me exactly. I am very much a loner throughout the entire year up until winter- that's when I usually get lonely and depressed, and when I need my friends and family to surround me. This made the connection I felt to the Roe Deer even stronger and convinced me to choose it as my form.
The Roe Deer, in addition to having a form I would find appealing to live in, also have a personality that matches my own. When I think of Roe Deer (or even just deer at all) I picture them as powerful and calm, yet reserved and timid at the same time. This overwhelmingly describes my personality: I'm very shy and quiet most of the time, but in situations where I need to be, I assume a calm and powerful aura, not letting anything or anyone break me. Roe Deer also tend to be more active at dusk and dawn, and these just so happen to be my favorite times of the day. Roe Deer also spend periods "lying up", during which they ruminate between feeding. I'm a very lazy person, and I think this time spent lying about could easily translate into laziness, furthering the connection I feel with the Roe Deer.
Lastly, I think that being able to turn into a Roe Deer would be quite easy in my hometown. I live in woodsy Illinois, where random deer standing around outside a forest or near a plain is not uncommon. Therefore, I could easily escape to the forest in my form and not be seriously out of place; I like to be comfortable, so the Roe Deer is a perfect way of ensuring this.
Caitlin, Hufflepuff
2011-03-23
#437 - hallieface - Leopard Cat
When the post with my animagus options went up, I had no idea what any of the animals available to me were. I Googled the leopard cat first, mostly because its name was at least a combination of two words I knew, and fell in love as soon as I saw a picture. The first one on the Google image results had the sweetest eyes I had ever seen, and the other pictures revealed a wild sort of intelligence not always found in domesticated cats. It was graceful, interesting, beautiful, acrobatic-looking-everything I could ever want in an animagus form.
I feel like the leopard cat suits me well for a lot of reasons. It’s a wild cat rather than a domesticated one. I might be a bit lazy, but I don’t always like having to depend on others for things. Leopard cats are largely solitary except for mating season, which sort of parallels my paradoxical desire for companionship and solitude. They also are somewhat nocturnal, which I can definitely relate to. If I had my way, I’d never wake up before ten or go to sleep before one. I’m pretty curious and lazy, much like any cat. I’ve also seen photographic evidence that this sort of cat enjoys swimming, as I do on occasion, so I am good with that. And night vision. Night vision is awesome. This essay is suddenly not about my spiritual connection with this animal anymore. Probably my cue to stop writing. I’m so excited about this.
Hallie, Ravenclaw
2011-03-17
#438 - crumplysnorkack - Eastern Screech Owl
The Eastern screech owl and I seem to have much in common. First of all, we are both basically nocturnal. Second of all, neither of us know what the hell we are doing with our faces. Also, both of us can turn our heads round nearly 360º.
I think the owl--the Eastern screech in particular--reflects the balance of my quest for knowledge with my general silliness. Owls are associated with wisdom, and I feel that, as a Ravenclaw, this is appropriate, as my intelligence and rationality are very important to me. But as interested as I am in learning and discussing what I know, I am equally capable of making faces at people until they laugh. Similarly, I tend to not realize when I am glaring at people or when my facial expression is inappropriate to the situation at hand.
The Eastern screech gives me everything I am looking for in an Animagus form from a practical perspective--inconspicuous, not at the bottom of the food chain, and capable of flight. It's not an animal that is really of much interest to Muggles, either, so no danger of being poached. Also, I could very easily spy on people without their knowledge of my presence. Even if they did know that owl was me, the Eastern screech is small, and can easily tuck itself out of sight.
Which brings me to another point. Both the Eastern screech and myself have a habit of tucking ourselves into small spaces. The Eastern screech nests in cavities--those lovely holes in trees I always wish I could fit into--and as strange as this may sound, I know if I were to build a nest, that's where I'd do it. Plus, both of us are big singers.
The Eastern screech owl provides me with the perfect opportunity to fly, hide from people, and, if I so choose, do a bit of sneaking about, especially considering the unique role of owls in the Wizarding World.
Plus, you can't fool owls.
Ron, Ravenclaw
2011-03-18
#439 - ayebydan - Costa Rican Cougar
I chose the Costa Rican Cougar for several reasons. It hunts at night and I have always been a night owl, getting things done better later on in the afternoon and at night when I concentrate better. I’m also very shy and don’t like being around large groups just like them and like the Costa Rican Cougar I can be all but anti-social with others around me. The Cougar doesn’t go looking for interaction with others and therefore conflict outside hunting, but is very capable of defending itself as it is a powerful animal and I really relate to this in that, if I need to involve myself or stand up for what I believe in I will but I won’t go purposefully looking for trouble or to start a conflict. I keep myself to myself most of the time just like they do. They also live in the sort of place I would like, warm enough without it being totally overpowering and are of course, land based animals which is like me. I don’t like water all that much but like them I could get through it if I had to. But like the felines, I wouldn’t want to. Aesthetically, it is very pleasing because it has fur and it is a truly beautiful animal, and I’ve always loved felines and thought them to be beautiful and smart. The Costa Rican Cougar is one of the big cats that are more likely to blend in to its background and that is just like me, I don’t go looking to be noticed. I also relate, on a more negative note, to the fact that they are so endangered. Health is important to me and something I struggle with so a connection to an animal that faces its own battle for survival in a lot of ways is very striking and really, I just love cats, all cats, and love that this was suggested.
Sam, Hufflepuff
2011-04-07
#440 - mk_tortie - North American River Otter
This was a tough choice for me in the end, because although I have always felt a connection to otters, I have also loved penguins for a long time, so I was surprised and pleased to see that as one of my choices! However, in the end, I'm going to go for the North American River Otter. The first and foremost reason for this choice is that even as I was filling out the application, the primary animal I could imagine being my animagus form was some kind of otter. Like the otter, I love life - I love playful closeness with those around me, I love to live with those I love, and I love water and splashing around!
In fact, being able to transform into an otter really, really appeals to me, because I would love to be able to interact with water to that extent - to glide around and explore. I'm a very curious person and I think this matches with the otter's traits - in fact, every time I've seen otters, in the wild and in wildlife centres, they always seem to be exploring and examining their surroundings, trying to take things apart and see what's inside. That's definitely me!
Another thing which makes the otter perfect for me is that I absolutely love fish, which is of course what otters primarily eat! Otters are also nocturnal, which matches my lifestyle - I love being up late at night and in the very early morning. Otters are also very vocal, and since I'm a very talkative, 'loud' person, I think that matches! The North American River Otter species of otter is particularly perfect for me since I now live in Canada, and thus live in an area where these kind of otters may be found. Maybe I'd even find some friends while in my animagus form!
Anna, Ravenclaw
2011-04-06
#441 - c_hrista - Sumatran Tiger
Other people talk about how narrowing down their four choices into their final animagus form is difficult. I may have done some reflecting for a few minutes before realizing that there wasn't really any competition for which animal would be the best fit for me.
The Sumatran Tiger is the smallest of the tiger subspecies. They're found in western Indonesia, which places their natural habitat only a few thousand miles from my ancestors in the Philippines. On their island, they're found in all sorts of habitats, from the mountains to swamps to the jungles and near the ocean. I find myself to be able to easily adapt to my surroundings like them. There are estimated to be only 500 remaining in the wild, making them very rare creatures, indeed.
All of these things draw me to them. I'm fiery and passionate, and can be as intense as these tigers can be. They're not pack animals, but the females engage in some social activities with other tigers. Among my friends, I'm the leader, but I'm also quite satisfied to be left alone, like my tiger counterparts.
I also feel that in the wild, I would be predator rather than prey. As a person, I am kind and friendly, but I can be driven and focused when it comes to getting things that I want. As hunters, these tigers are patient and slow, which fits with how I pursue my goals.
These tigers are often found in pools of water. They're excellent swimmers and feel so at home in the water that they're even likely to attack prey there. Like tigers, one of my favorite activities in the summertime (or whenever it's warm enough) is spending time floating around in a warm pool and basking in the sunshine. Swimming has been the only sport I've ever felt any affinity for.
The fact that there are so few left in the wild is something that strikes close to my heart. I don't consider myself to be in any danger of poaching (I'd hope!), but I have always felt like there aren't many people like me around. I get along well with others and make friends easily, but I still feel like I'm innately different or separate from everyone else, like I'm some sort of vulnerable and endangered species myself.
I've always been a cat-person. My fondness for felines started with my grandmother's cats, and extended to my own. I love the idea of getting to be a cat myself, for all of their lazy habits (expert nappers!), and focused passion, which are both things I relate to in my own life. I was born in the year of the Tiger and relate well to the traits the Chinese zodiac lists. The mascot of my first college was also a tiger, and those years I was at school gave me some of the biggest insights about who I was and who I wanted to be. Getting to claim the Sumatran Tiger as my own would be like a nod to that trying period of my life.
I can't think of any other animal that I would be as proud to carry inside of me, so thank you to those that nominated this beautiful tiger for me!
Christa, Gryffindor
2011-04-03
#442 - lmpetuous - Florida Panther
At first, I spent absolutely ages trying to decide between two of my choices - three of my choices were three of my favourite animals (three big cats! Holy moley, I didn't expect that many!), haha. I ended up badgering the buggery out of all my friends, including those outside of HiH, to help me decide between them. And even then, having ruled out Springbok immediately and Persian Leopard after a gargantuan amount of deliberation, I still couldn't decide between South China Tiger and Florida Panther.
For a fair few years, I've had connections to both tigers and panthers, so this choice was rather difficult. I waited for a while and read what people said in their votes for me - sadly, I didn't get a response from whoever voted me the tiger, so I began looking through whatever I could find on them, trying to work out what in particular someone saw in my application in order to vote me as such.
My list ended up somewhat shorter and less detailed than I feel it should have been in order for me to make a concrete decision, so I returned to the votes I was given from other members. After lots of back-and-forth thinking, I decided to go for Florida Panther for a multitude of reasons:
moonquail said something that really stuck with me - they mentioned the panthers not being particularly timid, though they weren't ones to rush to the centre of things, but that they will claim what they want and make no bones about it. This is a trait I identify with thoroughly - I've always fought for what I wanted, but I won't rush to the limelight if there's no reason for me to be there. I wholly identify with the panthers' aggressiveness if irritated, and, as moonquail put it being "a force to be reckoned with", which is something I've had said about me on more than one occasion. Little / easy to underestimate, but mighty.
The choice of Florida Panther satisfies all of my wants - I wanted a tail, damn it! - and my needs - I'm an athletic person and I enjoy running, climbing, jumping around, etc, and I feel that this particular kitty is lithe enough and "slinky" to be able to run around and get into awkward places if need be.
I feel that I am closer, physically speaking, to the panther as well, being as I have somewhat fair features and big green eyes. I'm also quite frequently making odd noises, which fits with the Florida Panther's being known to be fairly vocal.
Jay, Gryffindor
2011-04-04
#443 - tasmin_dvelnahr - Basenji
This wasn't an easy choice. I was immediately drawn to both the Eastern Wolf and my chosen form- the Basenji, but I did research on all of them and after that, the decision didn't seem quite so clear. Both the Eastern Green Mamba and Brown Hyena had points in their favor. In the end, I chose the Basenji although most folks I talked with automatically assumed I would choose the wolf, because wolves are one of my absolute favorite animals. I collect all things wolf, and I have to admit the pull was strong for choosing the wolf, but after thinking it over a few days, the Basenji was always there in my mind. So strong was the pull, I had actually started an essay in which I had chosen the Eastern Wolf, but it just didn't seem right.
I think the Basenji is the best fit for me for many reasons. First of all, they tend to be a loner, as am I, yet the Basenji is capable of forming strong bonds albeit with only a select few. This is me. I try to be friendly enough with all, but my strongest bonds are only with a few. Even my own aunt, at one point, said the only 'person' I ever had bonded with was my dog, Max. While I don't think that is true entirely, I don't seem to be as concerned with bonding with everyone in my family, or everyone that I meet or even become friends with as most people are.
The Basenji is also a very curious, clever and intelligent animal. I don't want to sound conceited, but I think those three descriptors apply to me as well. I am often too curious for my own good. Even when it comes to seeking knowledge that could be detrimental to myself, I can't help it. The Basenji is described as willing to resort to cleverness to try to get its own way. Again, fits me perfectly. If I want something badly enough, I will find a way to get it. Basenjis are described as being intelligent and I don't claim to know it all, but that isn't really the definition of intelligence. Intelligence is having the capability to learn and the desire to learn and then using it. Some very intelligent people I know are pretty much complete idiots because they do not use that with which they have been blessed. I use it. Despite being intelligent, the Basenji does not score high in 'dog intelligence'. It has been rated 78th out of 79 breeds in regards to intelligence, however, Wiki states: "Although very intelligent, basenjis have an independent nature like a cat and do not do things simply to please their owners. This would explain why they would do poorly on a test that measured a dog's "intelligence" by how well they follow commands". Given my independent nature, (that can be down right oppositional defiant when it comes to being told what to do) I found this amusing and another reason why the Basenji was the right choice for me. It reminded me of my high school days; I received horrible grades. I would ace the exams, but I didn't bother with the homework. I didn't see the point. I knew the material, my test scores more than proved that. Why waste time on homework when I could be out learning something new? Or satisfying my curiosity?
I think the Basenji represents a perfect mix enough of a dog's loyalty and a cat's independence combined with curiosity and intelligence. I am honored and proud to choose this fine animal as my animagus form.
Wikipedia on Basenjis- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basenji
Tasmin, Slytherin
2011-04-03
#444 - canarycream - Snow Leopard
fter a bit of research, I really liked all the choices given to me - they all related to me in some way (which was rather the point, I suppose!). So this was a difficult decision. Buuuut. The snow leopard is my favourite animal, and I've really always been drawn to them, so this form wins out, in the end. The other major contender was the serval because of how independent they are, but it's much too active a creature to fit my personality.
Snow leopards, however, are relatively calm and quiet (they can't roar or purr like other big cats, for instance). I'm a very quiet person - not just in that I don't talk a lot, but also in that I really annoyingly have trouble controlling the volume of my voice, so when I do talk, it normally comes out very quietly (or so I've been told time and time again). I also tend to respond calmly to most situations: I'm very able to step back, remove myself, and think about things rationally. It's actually one of the things I pride myself in the most - how logical and calm-minded I always am.
Another thing we share is a highly independent, solitary lifestyle. I much prefer my own company to that of others. I can go for weeks without talking to anyone, honestly. I'm very much a 'going off on my own and doing my own thing' type of person. I don't consciously deviate from the crowd - that is, I'm not trying to make any sort of statement - but I also don't actively follow it. I just like being alone. I like leading an independent life: I like working through problems on my own and coming up with my own solutions to things.
Snow leopards are also notoriously difficult to capture on film in the wild. They're secretive and elusive, and, well. Not one of my finer characteristics, but I'm one of the most secretive people I know. I always have been, even when I was a small child and refusing to even let anyone know what my favourite animal was, for instance. I open up to people very reluctantly, if at all. I'm fine talking about things that don't relate to me personally, but the minute you ask me about something that I really, truly care about - brick wall.
I've been called "unapproachable" and "aloof" on more than one occasion, which I guess is true, but I don't do it on purpose - it's just how I am. I don't go out of my way to be unfriendly, but I don't go out of my way to make friends with people, either, which is very snow leopard-esque in style, I think. They're really powerful, intelligent creatures, but they don't really go out of their way to seek conflict, outside of attaining meals. They're not aggressive if other snow leopards come into their territory, but they prefer to stay at a distance from others of their species.
Of the four choices, the snow leopard is the animal that I relate to the most, personality-wise, and I'm really very pleased that it was listed as an option!
Mari-Linn, Slytherin
2011-04-21
#445 - mandylikewhoaaa - Poodle
Okay, so I’m going to pick the poodle as my animagus because I really think it was the best choice for me. Although in my application I said that I like grazing herbivores, once I really thought about picking Mongolian gazelle or snowshoe hare I questioned whether or not I really felt comfortable as something so defenseless. The answer was no. It’s actually crazy that whoever chose poodle for me, because they’re my favorite dog because they’re cute, but also the second smartest breed of dog. I think that’s a lot like me, not that I’m super cute, hahaha, but that a lot of people assume when they first meet me outside of a school setting that I don’t really care that much for school or especially that I don’t excel in it. A small reason, though still a very exciting one for me is also that poodles have curly hair and I loooove curly hair. A lot. It says on Wikipedia that poodles are extremely people oriented and love to please, which is so me. For a while, when I was younger I would say that I didn’t actually care what anyone thought of me, I just did what I wanted to do regardless, but that’s totally not true. I really hate it when people dislike me or are disappointed in me. Wikipedia also says that poodles can often be stubborn, which is also so like me, it’s really hard for me to change my mind once I believe it’s true or right or whatever. Oh, and can it be noted that I want to be a standard poodle? Not a miniature or a toy poodle? I just thought of one last thing about poodles - they’re hypoallergenic, and although this isn’t exactly the same thing, but I don’t have any allergies? Hahaha.
Mandy, Ravenclaw
2011-04-19
#446 - snowweisz - Black Swan
ch I've studied for about a decade now), there is this traditional idea of the Black Swan: the Black Swan is a creative type, flirty, fun, full of mischief and even a little distracted but determined at heart. Some people believe that this makes Odile pure evil. That she's impossibly evil and haunting and that this is how she steals the prince away from Odette. But I continue to believe that this is wrong. Odile is so creative, so mischievous that she fools the prince by using that creativity to act the part of Odette. I find that so challenging, so creative and way more impressive than her fun and flirtatious personality. She is pure evil at heart but she is so creative, so determined and so invested, that she can push her evil inside to act the part of the perfect, good Odette and win the prince.
I will be honest, that impression I've had of the Black Swan from ballet dancing is one of the main reasons why I picked the Black Swan as my animagus form. Because that admiration I've had for the role feels like a good foundation for building up a connection, a relationship with the animal. I feel as if we already had a headstart before it was picked for me.
Swans are very graceful animals, which is something I requested. They spend long times in water but not underwater, something that fits my preferences too. I like to think that my animagus form would also be a reflection of how I behave regarding certain matters, and also reflect things I find pleasant. I mentioned in my app that I was very outspoken but also discreet and that I always try to have a good posture. The Black Swan is a very articulate animal that has a very efficient way to communicate with other swans but they are also rather discreet birds, keeping quiet when necessary. This swan is also very poised, when swimming, they keep their necks in a graceful, beautiful position. Both these things stand out in my application, since they are things I value rather deeply.
Black Swans have both time alone and time together with other swans, something I also mentioned being important to me. Also, swans bond for life with their loved ones. I don't make a lot of relationships, but the ones I make are strong and in many cases, long lasting.
Ultimately, I believe the Black Swan is by far the perfect choice for my animagus form.
Ana, Ravenclaw
2011-04-23
001-080 | 081-100 | 101-120 | 121-140 | 141-160 | 161-180
181-200 | 201-220 | 221-240 | 241-260 | 261-280 | 281-300
301-320 | 321-340 | 341-360 | 361-380 | 381-400 | 401-411
412-425 | 426-446 | 447-464 | 465-486 | 487-510 | 511-534
535-563 | 564-591 | 592-626 | 627-656 | 657-687 | 688-724
725-