Animagus Registry #161-180
#161 - introject - Jackdaw
"But I will wear my heart upon my sleeve for daws to peck at..."
The Jackdaw (Corvus monedula) is an amazingly appropriate representation for who I am. Not only is it one of the smallest species inside the Corvus genus of crows/ravens, ranging from 34 to 39cm in length) which obviously reflects my small stature, but the other physical aspects - the sharp eyes and dark plumage also resemble me. The Jackdaw is also an omnivore, like me, but leans towards the vegetation half of its diet, preferring to snack on insects and fruit than meat, but will do so if required. They also have loud, distinctive calls - I am certainly quite a loud, outspoken person and my voice, for such a small person, carries far.
The Jackdaw is a bizarrely social bird, even more so than the chimpanzee or any other primate; their behaviour is one of diplomacy and respect which is something I relate with, being a diplomat myself. The Jackdaw is one of the few species in the world that operates on the concept of mutualism and giving; if you treat me well, then I will do the same to you. I am a fairly generous person myself because I always believe that someone will reciprocate my kindness. They are not overly aggressive birds and focus on "harassment avoidance", opting to stay alive and quite well instead of warring over petty things like land claims and who gets what. The Jackdaw's flexible sociability is also a coincidental trait; although they are independent and can fare quite well without a flock, a Jackdaw's natural tendency is to join and thrive within a group where it is preferable, instead of facing the perils of the world alone.
Most modern fiction writes the Jackdaw as a influential and intelligent creature (although old myths said Jackdaws brought death) and many reports document the Jackdaw as "human-like" in intelligence, and have the uncanny ability to understand spoken words, and can even imitate them. They are clever and have a tendency to disappear when the going gets rough, and their small form and nimbleness allows them to escape without a second thought. The Jackdaw is a species that fear humans very little and can be kept as pets, and they're found all over the world, particularly in Great Britain and central Europe. They also have a tendency to keep and collect items such as food, precious jewels or other shiny items, hoarding them like a packrat.
Due to its innate intelligence, diplomacy and physical appearance, I believe the Jackdaw would be the most appropriate animagus for me!
Nattie, Slytherin
March 2008
#162 - xfortytwo - Eastern Bluebird
Entering this, I had no idea how difficult it would actually be to choose my animagus form. While the choice of Bichon Frise fell away rather quickly due to it actually being one of my least favourite species of dog (I have no idea why, they just are), the remaining 3 were very close.
In the end, I found myself identifying the most with the Eastern Bluebird. What amazed me the moment I saw the picture of it was how much its appearance reminds me of myself -- to the degree a bird can resemble a human. Its colours are dominated by blue and red, and the shade of blue is strikingly similar to the colour of my eyes, while my red hair is definitely reflected in the chest of the bird. It's almost as if someone just made me smaller and adorned me with feathers.
While I did end up choosing the element of 'earth' in my application, I realise after thinking about it more thoroughly that 'air' would have been much more appropriate. I'm a dreamer. I live with my head in the clouds to a large degree, and flying has always fascinated me because of the freedom it gives. I've spent years of my life wishing I knew how to fly, just to get away from things and to experience the feeling of just soaring and being.
The Eastern Bluebird is described and perceived as a gentle, carefree and lovable bird. I think this suits at least some people's perception of me, but more importantly it describes what I want to be and strive to achieve. I may not be carefree to a large degree (cause I do tend to worry a lot), but it's something I try to be because worries have brought me down too many times.
I feel that the Eastern Bluebird and its cheerful, colourful and free spirited nature represents not only who I am, but also who I want to be and which characteristics I try to emphasise in myself.
But while the Eastern Bluebird is perceived as gentle and carefree, it won't let itself be walked all over. They can actually become rather aggressive if they feel threatened, and will be fierce to protect their territory. I am much the same way on this point. Perhaps not on physical territory, but I will turn fierce to protect friends of mine or causes that are important to me. I may be someone who is rather easy going and loves to have a good laugh, but I won't let myself be stepped all over.
Lastly, there's one last thing I would like to point out, and that is that the Eastern Bluebird is known for its cheerful song. Being me -- who is someone entirely dependent on music and someone who sings at every available moment -- this was a very notable characteristic. I'm trying to figure out how to say this without sounding conceited, but the point is just that I have been complimented on my voice several times and singing is a very big part of my life, so it's definitely a point where I connect to the Eastern Bluebird.
I'm actually quite surprised at how connected I feel to this animal already!
Ingeborg, Hufflepuff
March 2008
#164 - graveofdreams - Norwegian Forest Cat
Out of the four choices that I was provided, I feel that the Norwegian Forest Cat fits me the best. These cats originate in Norway, and are known as Norsk Skogkatt ("Skog" is a form of the word "forest"). Norwegian Forest Cats are intelligent, energetic, curious, and they become very attached to their owners. They live in cold climates, are great hunters, and their double-layered coats are waterproof. They are patient and friendly once you are introduced to them, and they are not high-maintenance.
As a person, I am intelligent and energetic, especially when passionate about something - such as creating art and studying art history. Like the Skogkatt and their relationship with their owner(s), I'm very loyal to my friends and family and will search for them (either physically looking for them, phoning/texting, or communicating on the internet) if I am left alone for long periods of time (though, it is not to say that I don't like spending time by myself too). I love cold weather and much like their thick coats, I have lots of hair and I love the rain and ocean/rivers (although I don't often swim). I love nature and to explore, and I feel very connected with the forest, even though I was born and live in the desert (Arizona). I have a ridiculous amount of patients, especially in situations concerning "friend drama," or if I am in the process of a long, drawn-out project. I am not high-maintenance, despite the fact that I do love makeup and my hair to be nice, but other than that I care not about fancy living conditions and I am not materialistic. (Also, I find it really cute that these cats are sometimes referred to as "Viking Cats," considering that Ravenclaw's mascot here at HiH is the Viking. :P)
graveofdreams, Ravenclaw
April 2008
#166 - fr0mthepast - Black-shouldered Kite
After a tough decision, I find the Black-shouldered Kite is the form for me. The Kite is a coastal bird, much like myself. I would hate to live inland without the freedom being near the sea. The sea makes me feel less claustrophobic, but I’m still a land girl. The Kite comes from naturally warmer climates, but as a coastal bird the temperature would be considerably cooler and thus perfect for me, sea breezes are pleasantly cooling.
I’m also a watcher, I don’t jump strait into situations. I’m far too careful and worryfull, preferring to sit back watching things unfold before I choose to jump in or not. The Kite’s hunting patterns are stealthy and sneaky, perfectly matching this aspect of my personality. They kite down on their prey before the prey can react, prior to this they are carefully tracking.
I wanted my form to be able to be long distance and discreet, birds can fly for many miles and as the Kite is a small bird I would not be noticed in spying situations. The birds are nomadic and generally hunt in solitude or with a monogamous partner. Again, very much complementary to my personality, I don’t really have any clear roots in one place as I move house a lot, I have no stable material home. I also prefer to do things alone rather than in groups, but I would open myself up to one partner. Lastly, the Kite lives off rodents and small animals and not insects. I am extremely fearful of insects, and this would reflect how my form would reinforce my fear of insects and work around it.
Alice, Ravenclaw
April 2008
#167 - medraxellion - Dingo
For my Animagus form, I believe myself to be closest to the Dingo. The Dingo moves in what is not a pack, but often described as pairs or small family. They are very loyal to their fellow travel mates and family while being quiet, often hostile though, with others. I am very open with my friends and family while being shy with those I barely know. Like the dingo, if I feel something is threatening my friends or family I am likely to turn hostile. It is easy to compare myself. Yet, the dingo can also work by itself, choosing to explore alone. I have my moments where I prefer to be alone as well.
It is said dingoes are hard to domesticate, which may be a good thing considering their proximity to extinction. They are independent creatures with a lot of intelligence. Often this makes them rebellious. I have to say the same can be said about me. It is hard for me to be forced to follow instructions if I do not wish to. I am called rebellious many times by my peers. Well, among other things.
My friends like to make jokes about dingoes actually, which is why I find this choice others saw for me quite funny. My roommates often make comments like “A Dingo took ma babeh!” so once I told them a dingo was one of my choices we had to laugh quite a bit. Apparently they think it is easy to think of me taking a baby like people have claimed of dingoes. Though, to be fair dingoes have not stolen any babies. We have yet to figure out where the ridiculous quote came from.
After reading about the dingoes I was amazed to see how close I could relate to them. Obviously, there are some ways in which I am not like them, but not many. That is why I believe my Animagus form to be a Dingo.
Medra, Gryffindor
April 2008
#168 - darthsarah - Ermine
The final step in becoming an Animagus was by far the most enlightening task I have come across in the HIH communities. I know that it's just a LJ thing, but this was really interesting. My choices were as different as possible and that made it a hard decision. I looked at each animal and felt the strongest connection with the Ermine also known as the Winter Stoat. As I found out more about this animal, I came to see that we had more things in common that I had put in my application. It was uncanny how the ermine really is my "inner animal."
The ermine is a member of the weasel family, so it fits in with my Slytherin personality of being sneaky and sly. It relies heavily on its senses and instincts because it is a carnivore who is capable of killing small animals as well as animals much larger that itself. I am a tougher gal than most, very sly, and as anti-vegetarian as one can be. I am a big sister, an athlete, and just a fierce fighter, so I have fighting blood in my veins. It's a very active animal who climbs trees and hunts for food and for fun. The ermine often hunts small animals and takes their dens afterwards. This makes sure that it gains as much hunting territory as possible.
It's very territorial and doesn't like other animals, especially it's own sex. I am very friendly with other women, but I'm very competitive with them, even passively. I would rather be fishing with my fiance and his friends or playing video games.
Now the ermine (stoat) has a rich brown coat during the year, but when winter comes, the thick and beautiful "ermine" fur appears on the animal. This is quite entertaining because I have possibly done some crazy colors in my hair, but I'm also very concerned about image and appearance to a fault. I appreciate beauty and the ermine is a symbol of beauty and purity. It was favored by English nobles and royalty, especially Elizabeth I (The Virgin Queen), and was even featured in royal paintings. I have been a pageant queen and if this comes to be the animal of queens, then this little weasel was meant for me. I'm also getting married in the fall, so I will be sporting a pure white color at the beginning of the cold season. ;0)
The term "ermine" comes from the Baltic Languages and my ancestors are from Lithuania, the center of the Baltic countries. I am very proud of my Baltic Heritage and am incorporating many Lithuanian and other European customs into my wedding. Who knows, I might even throw an ermine stole around the bouquet. (Hey, carnivores can eat the meat and wear the fur. You shouldn't waste anything. White fur goes with the outfit.)
Sarah, Slytherin
May 2008
#169 - hiddengrace - Luna Moth
I chose the Luna Moth for my animagus form. For me, it is important to have a spiritual connection with my animagus as well as having physical similarities. For the physical similarities, simply, they can fly and are an air animal, which is something I’ve always dreamed of. They are nocturnal creatures, and while I may not be the biggest night-owl due to working and going to school at night, I do love the time of day from dusk and onward. In general, moths are pretty solitary creatures, but they can seek out others to be social with if needed as well as for mating, which is quite similar to me. The Luna Moth also fits my need of being able to escape easily, of, as I said in my application, “Getting away… and finding a place to think and dream just sounds amazing,” and I think the Luna Moth fits this specification quite well. They are natives to the east coast when found in America, like myself, but more than that they live in areas that are considerably warm, but not extremely hot or cold. Luna Moths, and moths in general, are very calm, peaceful animals who do not get riled up or angered easily, and that is exactly like me. It really takes a lot for someone to anger me, and if they do, I rarely let it show. I don’t like to let people think they are getting to me, so I keep my feelings to myself and don’t let my temper rise.
For the spiritual aspects, I have always had a connection with butterflies, not only for their aspects of flying, but because they symbolize new beginnings and overcoming change, as well as being symbols of life and joy. However, one of the reasons I chose the Luna Moth is because they represent the soul's attraction to light, power and goodness, as well as their connection to the moon (which I actually mentioned in my application), passion, and ephemeral, otherworldly beauty.
I think all of the spiritual and physical connections to this animal make it a good choice for me.
Kat, Hufflepuff
May 2008
#170 - la_conquistador - Red Kangaroo
The animal I decided on is the Red Kangaroo as they seem to fit me the best. They move in smaller groups, have a tendency to be lazy, mostly active at night and are extremely cute. (All information about this awesome creature was found on wikipedia or their National Geographic page)
For starters, Red Kangaroos live in smaller groups, only joining up with others when they absolutely need to for survival reasons. That’s the kind of person I am. I travel in smaller groups, sometimes I prefer to be alone, but when I need to I’m ok with larger groups. I have my close circle of friends and they’re all that I need. I don’t need to be surrounded be thirty people in order to be happy. Another thing that I feel connects me to Red Kangaroos is the fact in order to maintain their body temperature they are basically lazy and won't move. Well they also lick themselves (which I don't do) and hang out in the shade (which I do do). Now I’m not lazy in order to maintain my body temperature, I just happen to be, well, lazy. Ok, procrastinate and wait and wait and wait and... well you get the idea. I move and participate in what’s going on around me, but for the most part I tend to just sit and hang out. Now these guys come alive at night and that’s the time when I shine. You wake me up before 10 am and you’d better be wearing protective gear or earplugs, and even if I get up earlier than I’d like I will still stay up until the wee hours of the morning. It's when I do my best work and have the most fun. These guys sure know how to party I'm sure. And finally, Red Kangaroos are extremely adorable and they’re just... kangaroos. I can be endearing, when I want to be, and I just love kangaroos in general. They are associated with being bouncy and amusing, which I like to think I am. I may be calm, cool and collected but I have many bouncy moments.
Steph, Gryffindor
May 2008
#171 - thecowboycliche - Florida Blue Jay
I have chosen the Florida Blue Jay as my animal.
I chose this animal for several reasons. Firstly, I wanted to be able to fly. I live far away from a lot of my friends, so if I was to have the ability to change into an animal, I would want it to be a bird or something else that could fly, so that I could get myself wherever I wanted to go, whenever, for free. That way I could see my friends more than once or twice a year!
After researching the blue jay, I learned that they are both curious and intelligent creatures. I feel that both of these traits apply to me. I think I'm reasonably intelligent and naturally curious. I'm a teacher, and teachers have to not only be knowledgeable but curious as well. They have to be willing and open to learning as much as they can so they can impart that knowledge on their students.
I've also learned that blue jays are very vocal birds. This applies to me in a few different ways. I can be shy at first and not speak much, but after I'm comfortable in a situation, I can't shut up. I'm also pretty willing to talk to just about anyone who will talk to me. Another way that I'm vocal is that I'm pretty opinionated. If it's a topic I feel strongly about, I usually can't resist throwing my two cents into the discussion, and I'm usually not afraid to speak my mind about what I believe in.
Blue Jays also usually mate in monogamous pairs and the males, as well as the females, help take care of the young. That's pretty progressive as far as animals go, and I've always considered myself a progressive person.
On top of all that, the specific species of blue jay that was chosen for me was the Florida blue jay, which is significant to me because I grew up in Florida. It was and always will be home to me and I miss it dearly.
For all those reasons, I think the Florida Blue Jay is a very suitable animal to be my animagus form.
Lauren, Hufflepuff
May 2008
#172 - keakealani - Common Nightingale
I believe the Common Nightingale really fits my personality for several reasons. I am a singer, and nightingales are known for their beautiful song. According to Wikipedia, nightingale means "night songstress," a perfect epithet for someone who spends many nights in rehearsals and concerts. The nightingale song is very complex, and as a light lyric soprano, even my voice type corresponds with some of the styles heard in a nightingale call.
In addition, nightingales are relatively small (but not tiny) birds, which fit with my relatively small (but not tiny) stature. It's colouration is dark, like my hair, but has a fair underside, a reflection of my fair complexion.
A small bird fits my personality because it is fairly unobtrusive but can still assert itself in its own world. Nightingales use their song to defend their territory, much as I'm quick to defend myself or my friends through debate or argument. However, they can also sing fer pure enjoyment, which I also do.
Nightingales live in somewhat moderate climates, although a bit further north than I'm used to. I think their home in Western Europe is less a reflection of my personal preference in climate, but more a nod to my affinity for the history and culture of Europe. I have always been fascinated by the way Western Europe grew to exert so much pressure on the world from a small continent by the Atlantic. I think the nightingale further shows my interest in that area, as it, too, can exert an influence on culture despite its small size. There are many cultural works that refer to the nightingale, especially in Southeastern European folk tales.
More lightly, I really think the nightingale is a very attractive bird, even if its colours are not as bright or appealing as other birds. I tend to have a more muted sense of fashion, and the nightingale also shows a tasteful use of neutral colours that aren't flashy or showy. I'm not the kind of person that wants to be judged by appearance, and I feel that the nightingale really doesn't either. I think it's incredibly cool that birds attract mates with song, and I think that's much more appropriate for me because I tend to be attracted to really good singers, even if I pay less attention to physical appearance.
In a way, the nightingale really represents my sense of romanticism because I can really relate to nature without being totally isolated from humanity. Nightingales can fly quite long distances and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but they can also survive quite well in more urban environments. I've always sort of loved the "best of both worlds" idea with nature and urbanity. I live in Honolulu, which I often joke is the biggest small town. Even though the city has over 875,000 people, it still shows a lot of nature because of the mountains, beaches, and parks. You can get away and go to the beach or a park but yet still be in the midst of the city, ten minutes away from just about anything. The nightingale gets more of that feeling by being mobile and able to fly into the wilderness or into a city.
Ultimately, I felt that the common nightingale really reflects the entirety of who I am. I am a singer, I am an indecisive sort of adventurer, and I am someone with a lot of personality in a small package. I can definitely describe myself with the essence of a nightingale, and thus it is the perfect animagus form.
Kea, Ravenclaw
May 2008
#174 - pack1ife - Cairn Terrier
Several good choices here, however there is lack of information on some of these animals, and while one does not actually choose their animagus, the idea of being a bat has never quite set right with me. I know I mentioned a desire to fly, but in hindsight I’d probably get dizzy eventually. I don’t quite have the focus of most air species. And though I like leopards - mostly due to influence by comics, my bark is most definitely bigger than my bite, so I feel quite comfortable choosing the Cairn Terrier. I used to love these kind of dogs. In fact I’d written some fairly comprehensive children’s fiction about one of them as a kid, so I can definitely see the connection. I’m actually quite curious that somebody else saw it, since I haven’t thought about those stories in years. I really am just kind of an open book, another reason why I identify with dogs.
Cairn Terriers are intelligent, lively, strong, and loyal. Stubborn and strong-willed, with a very playful instinct combined with their strong prey instinct. Which gives them a reputation for disobedience. I can relate to that fairly easily, being both independent, though loyal, and my weaknesses of lack of discipline and disorganization. I imagine as I dog I would have my nose hit with a paper or rubbed into the carpet many times. However, Cairn Terriers are reasonably intelligent, and being so, we both seem able to learn from our mistakes, and, although willful, can be trained and adapt generally well to family life. I’m an Enneagram 7w6, and like many 6’s, I do ultimately seek security, despite my wandering tendencies and desire for autonomy…and…all of my dominant 7 traits.
God, even the health risks sound like me - at my worst. Though playful and never passing up a chance to dig after real or imagined prey, they can be fairly nervous dogs and prone to overindulgence, and loss of eyesight in later years. I cannot really stress the 7 enough.
Cairns were bred as working dogs and are still often used as such. I sometimes wonder if I have 5-ish tendencies as I do put my all into the jobs I do, but it could also just be my 6ish desire for a steady paycheck and wandering sense of “Where the hell am I going?” I’m doing this now…no discipline. Most Cairn Terriers are very independent and don’t really make the best "lap dogs", and that was emphasized in my application, as well as the reasoning behind the other voters. And I quite love this description from Wikipedia, explaining that the image of them as portrayed by "Toto" from The Wizard of Oz is a “partial misconception.” In actuality, these dogs are not always terribly affectionate and, like Toto, would vigorously object to being put in a basket.
Cyndi, Gryffindor
June 2008
#175 - et_tu_lj - Snow Leopard
For as long as I can remember, I have identified with cats, to the point of meowing at my coworkers at work. I can't imagine my animagus form being anything other than a feline. But I am not content to be a domestic cat, no matter how much I adore them. I want to stalk silently through the terrain. I want to escape into the wilderness and scale mountains. I want to explore the cold, unknown corners of the world. For that, there is no better cat than the Snow Leopard.
On my very first trip to the zoo, I fell in love with snow leopards. They had two snow leopard cubs, and I watched them for hours, before finally being dragged away kicking and screaming. I was very quiet, even as a child, and I hated being the center of attention, so this was an extremely rare occurrence. On every zoo trip after that, I saved up my allowance to buy something on snow leopards from the gift shop, until I had everything within reach of a child's budget.
As an adult, I fell in love with them all over again. In Planet Earth, there's a segment showing a female snow leopard hunting in the wild, the first time this has been successfully captured on film. I've watched this segment over and over, in awe of her speed and agility as she effortlessly stalks and runs down her prey on the nearly vertical side of a mountain. Although I still spend hours in front of the snow leopards at the zoo, nothing can compare with the grace and power of one in the wild.
When I saw the snow leopard as one of my animagus choices, I instinctively wanted this childhood obsession as my form. But I forced myself to consider all my choices objectively and ensure it was a true match for my personality. In my everyday life, I'm extremely reclusive and hard to get to know. I strongly identify with the snow leopard, which is so reclusive and lives in such inaccessible terrain that almost nothing is known about its behavior in the wild. Although snow leopards will take care of their young, as adults their lives are so solitary that there has been no need for a word to describe a group of snow leopards.
I'm actually quite surprised at how connected I feel to this animal already!
Kimberly, Ravenclaw
June 2008
#176 - stellazeee - Egyptian Mau
The animal I have finally decided upon for my animagus form was the Egyptian Mau. I know that I did point out about wanting to be an animal who could get up and away into the air in my application, and still think that it'd be great to be able to fly. But when I got my choices (which were all birds aside from this little cat, interestingly enough), this animal jumped out at me really quickly.
Physically, the Egyptian Mau is a beautiful cat with an elegant air about it and they have had the air of mystery surrounding them for many years, being worshipped by egyptians in the past.
The first social attribute which I found drawn to was how the Mau was known for "intelligence and close bonding with responsible and loving owners". This cat is not by any measure a greatly friendly creature, on the contrary being known for how unsociable it can be to strangers of any other species, even cats. Yet it does bond well with the few close ones who truly care and bring it up. They do understand who are the hands who feed it and care, allowing few into its world but having tight bonds with the ones who are there. That's my loner side coming out in an animal perfectly.
Another thing that I had in common with this animal, was how it was said to be "averse to loud noises and fast-moving objects". These cats are said to disappear from strange and loud humans, hiding from things that they aren't comfortable. Taking this at a superficial leve, I hate loud noises (screaming, shouting, cheering, squealing included) very much and wince every time my friends start yelling their heads off. Also with regards to their behaviour of tending to hide away from things that they aren't comfortable with, I'm pretty much the same too. Instead of confronting things I don't like, I take the easy way out and hide in a corner until it passes. Sometimes when that isn't possible, I act all indifferent with this expressionless face so no one really takes note of me until everything's over.
The Egyptian Maus are also fiercely protective of their territory and loved ones. It isn't something you'd expect from them given their poised and docile appearance, but when push comes to shove, these cats do attack (and fiercely too). I find myeslf doing the same many times. I don't normally get provoked too easily (even if I wouldn't call myself easy going, I don't get angry in the true sense of the word - just unhappy or grumpy) but when I really do have to protect things dear to me, I fight back in the strongest way possible. There's a line that no one can cross for me, and when you do, you can't blame me for things getting ugly. We'd get along fine if you just keep within your own space and don't over-step thoes boundaries over there.
The final point about these cats that really did it for me was how they were extremely conscientious in wiping out mouse and rat populations in homes for its home-owners. Now I obviously don't chase rats or mice around my house but I am very much responsible about tasks that are entrusted to me. I don't slack off on the things that I just have to do, no matter the circumstances (expect the same from others as well, but that's another issue altogether).
As such, I feel that the Egyptian Mau is the perfect animagus for me with its simple but deceptive appearance, and interesting unfriendly manner.
Stella, Hufflepuff
June 2008
#177 - sanggre_habagat - Northern Blue Jay
This is my second time registering for an animagus, and I was thus surprised that my choice of animals was completely changed - considering my application was copy-pasted from the old one. Nonetheless, the choices I had this time around were far more to my taste than the previous ones.
My choices were Mandarin Duck, Brown-eared Bulbul, Northern Blue Jay, and the Balinese. Frankly, if I were completely biased, I'd have chosen the Balinese as I love cats more than anything, but upon close scrutiny, I found out that the Northern Blue Jay was for me.
First of all, it's a very beautiful bird, in my favorite shade of blue. One's animagus choice must take color preference into account, you know.
The Blue Jay occupies a variety of habitats within its large range, from the pine woods of Florida to the spruce-fir forests of northern Ontario. It is less abundant in denser forests, preferring mixed woodlands with oaks and beeches. Thus, a climate with just the right temperature, and enough for being inconspicuous in the trees.
The Blue Jay, though, is a slow flier, as if relaxed and carefree. I am quite laid back like that, and usually am too relaxed for my own good. The Blue Jay's slow flight makes it even easier to be caught by birds of prey.
whitestar_alpha gave me a very lovely anecdote about a gutsy Blue Jay she and her husband met while camping:
My husband and I went on a weekend camping trip. There's a lot of jay's in the mountains where we were camping. One particular jay one morning decided that he was determined to chase my husband away from his breakfast. So the jay landed on the picnic table and kept squawking at my hubby. Hubby tried to chase the jay away but the bird kept getting closer and closer still squawking and scolding. Finally the jay was so close that when my husband reached out to shoo the jay away and he actually touched him! The jay finally got the message and left. Talk about gutsy! O.O The jay is small compared to a human and still that jay wasn't going to take no for an answer. The jay obviously thought highly of himself, lol. It was so hilarious we've never forgotten it and it happened a very long time ago ^_^
As you can see, though the Blue Jay is relaxed, it's quite tough and very gutsy, which I am not in real life but would like to be as an animagus. Actually, Blue Jays may chase predatory birds, such as hawks and owls which occasionally feed on jays, and will scream if it sees a predator within its territory. It has also been known to sound an alarm call when hawks or other dangers are near, and smaller birds often recognize this call and hide themselves away accordingly. It may also be aggressive towards humans who come close to its nest, and if an owl roosts near the nest during the daytime the Blue Jay mobs it until it takes a new roost. Apparently, it's a helpful, noble bird, as well. XD
Just like me, the Blue Jay can be a bit tactless and insulting, with its loud, sometimes annoying call. Even if I'm not vocal in real life, my animagus form should be a way for me to voice out my sentiments. :)
All in all, I can say that the Blue Jay is a terrific bird, and my best bet for my animagus.
Gerry, Ravenclaw
June 2008
#178 - alohachary1851 - Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Whilst strolling through Wikipedia, researching my animals, I came across this phrase:
"You can order a Labrador; ask a Golden; but you must negotiate with a Chesapeake."
I mean, come on.
On the bright side of things, they have a relatively sunny disposition and are known for their intelligence, good sense and vocal nature when they are happy. Chesapeakes differ from the other retrievers greatly mainly because of this aspect. Where Labradors and Goldens are usually easier to handle, a Chesapeake will stubbornly refuse unless trained properly, almost as if asking why they must do something instead of just blindly doing it. Also, Chesapeakes are usually a one owner dog, meaning that they will only view one person as their master, if that, and everyone else is an equal, or more likely, a subordinate. They are trainable, but it takes an experienced dog owner to manage them because of their dominance issue. Highly territorial, they will aggressively fight to retain their dominance. Finally, while they’re slow to learn rules, once they learn them, they will enforce them upon other dogs
I found all of these aspects of the Chesapeake temperament easily relatable. I am a mellow person and with that comes a normally sunny disposition and when I am in high spirits I tend to talk. A lot.
Furthermore, when learning something, I always always ask why it is I have to learn it. If it is something I am not going to have to apply, then I will refuse to pay any more attention to it than necessary. Also, if someone is a poor leader, then you can bet that I will undermine their leadership in multiple ways. As for territoriality, my territory is my intellect and the application thereof, whether in writing fanfic or being alpha dog in a lab class. I will defend my territory by aggressively taking on anyone who tries to knock me off my top spot.
Appearance wise, they’re pretty dogs with a thick coat of fur. If anyone has SEEN my hair… it is an appropriate animal! They’re retrievers, so they love the water and they come from colder climes. Finally they’re dogs, inconspicuous, ordinary, mundane animal, perfect for blending in.
Charyse, Gryffindor
June 2008
#180 - brighty18 - Samoyed
My animagus form shall be the Samoyed and I want to thank everyone who took the time to vote. I love Samoyeds, my cousins once had one and he was wonderful: sweet, patient, and very loyal. He was pretty, but could blend in crowd which is something I look for in my animagus form.
Samoyeds are clever, but also quite amiable and that, essentially, sums me up. They’re called “smiling dogs” because they appear to be smiling and, as dorky as this may sound, really am pretty happy all the time. Like me, Samoyeds enjoy cold weather and loathe heat. They love being outdoors until it gets hot, at which time most prefer to be inside next to the air conditioner. I could not relate more!
Samoyeds are cuddly and known for keeping their owners warm at night. This may be TMI, but I generate quite a bit of heat, too. In the winter I often wake up covered in cats with my husband squished up against me. Of course, I’m hot and uncomfortable, but they seem to like it, so that’s fine. Like the Samoyed I’m happiest when others are happy. Thus, they make poor guard dogs. Samoyeds like people and rarely become aggressive unless their loved ones are threatened and that’s very much me, too. Their only service as a watch dog stems from the fact that they bark a lot and, as everyone knows by my giant application, I have a big ‘ol mouth. I like to talk. Period.
While Samoyeds are intelligent, they can be difficult to train because they’re stubborn and often unwilling to submit to the rules. I’m not saying I’m difficult, but I do tend to rebel against the rules. My cousins’ Samoyed pulled his lead rather than walk quietly beside them - apparently, that’s a very “Samoyed” trait. While not the best sled dogs, they can pull sleds and would rather pull than follow. I can relate. Interestingly, Samoyeds are actually herd dogs (they herd reindeer, although I have goats) and prefer to have things running smoothly and in the correct direction. I’m pretty much like that, too. We’re both good with kids, other animals, old folks, and annoying people and we rarely, if ever, snap or bite. We can live in packs and work in groups, but are can happily tolerate being alone as well.
As to appearance… do I really big hair? (kidding!) Besides the smile, Samoyeds are known for not having a “doggy smell” which is funny because I’m borderline compulsive potential odor. Frequent showers (twice a day), deodorant, scented lotion, etc. are all part of the routine - the very idea of smelling bad just kills me. They also have a coat that tends to repel dirt so they always look clean. I appreciate that, I’m all about hygiene. They’re short and stocky and, as much as I’d like to be tall and graceful, I’m simply not. But Samoyeds are also deceptively strong which, fits me, too.
So in short, they are smart, stubborn, sturdy, loyal, amicable, cold-weather loving, and very clean - much like me. Sirius may be mistaken for a Grim in his form, but mine is all smiles.
Thanks, all!
Michelle, Hufflepuff
June 2008
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