#564 -
dunnottar - Northwest African Cheetah
When I went to read the options presented to me for my animagus, I was at first dismayed: how could all of these choices be so far from who I felt I was? Then I realized I was looking at somebody else's choices. Oops.
This made the excitement I felt at getting the Northwest African Cheetah all the more wonderful. I hadn't expected to be given an option that fit me so incredibly well. As I read through information on this particular species of cheetah, I knew it offered everything I was looking for in an animagus.
The first thing that struck me about the NW African Cheetah is that it is incredibly rare. I had in mind that I wanted something unique, and though it's sad that this cheetah is critically endangered, it also offers an interesting perspective for me; there are times in my dealings with others that I feel as though my type of thinking is critically endangered. Logical thought, questioning the status quo and presenting alternative methods are somewhat forgotten in what could otherwise be civil discussions, and I feel out of place. This cheetah's rare and endangered status appealed to me for that reason.
Secondly, I had mentioned identifying with strong, subtle hunters. This cheetah, unlike its more common relatives, hunts primarily during the nighttime hours to conserve energy out of the hot Saharan sun. While able to run unbelievably fast like their cousins, they also opt to use subtlety and the cover of night to get the job done. This appeals to my personality; while I am good at being at the forefront of things, I operate very well beneath the surface and behind the scenes.
Third, this cheetah exists in smaller groups than a lot of big cats. They are not entirely solitary and can work together, but prefer to operate on a smaller scale. This is also something that I relate to very deeply. While I am social and extraverted, I prefer to do it in a smaller situation because I get bored of it after awhile. Also, as I listed in my application, I feel that my weakness is my superiority complex. What better than a shrewd, big cat to represent that?
And it's COOL. In fact, this cheetah is so rare that many of the pictures of it in the wild are only from nightvision cameras. The wikipedia article itself doesn't show a daylight NW African Cheetah, but rather a ghostly, black and white figure with glowing eyes. It's beautiful, it's deadly, and it's mysterious. What more could I want?
Overall, this animal presented me with an animal I had never really heard of before while staying true to everything I wanted. I can't think of a better option for me.
Kaitlin, Slytherin
2012-04-23
#565 -
kaitydid33087 - Fishing Cat
I seem to find a connection within cats of any sort. They’re curious animals, they’re sleek and quite, they’re kind of lazy. This describes me perfectly. Thus I've chosen the Fishing Cat. The Fishing Cat can often be found in the wetland areas, which is where I like to spend most of my time, in and near the water. They’re very at home in the water and can swim long distances, though I don’t have a lot of endurance, I can swim a fair distance. I enjoy being in the water, very much like the Fishing Cat does. Fishing Cats are mostly nocturnal animals, and I, like the Fishing Cat, am mostly nocturnal. I like to stay up late and play around the internet late at night. I read, I spend a lot of time staying up late to finish a book. The Fishing Cat is also solitary, and I’m a mostly solitary person. I spend time around my friends and whatnot, but for the most part, I like to be by myself. The few times that Fishing Cats are found with others are when they birth their babies. I won’t go out of my way to be alone, but most of the time, if I have a choice to be around people or by myself, I’ll pick by myself. Though I don’t look EXACTLY like the Fishing Cat, I seem to think that the dark color of it’s fur, is similar to my natural hair color. A more dark blonde. And the spots it has on it’s body matches well with the freckles and moles I have. With some pictures of the Fishing Cat I’ve found, they have rings around their eyes, which would work well for the glasses I wear. The Fishing Cat, because I love cats, and rumor has it that I’m adorable, and this cat is quite adorable. And thus my choice for my animagus is the Fishing Cat.
Kaitlyn, Hufflepuff
2012-04-19
#566 -
astrophelind - Wedge-tailed Eagle
I had a hard time choosing an animagus form. All of them were credible, and all of them had something that was very close to my personality. It was a very close choice between the four, but ultimately I’ve decided to go with the Wedge-tailed Eagle. It’s not an animal I would have chosen for myself ever, (if anything I’m more likely to pick a feline to identify with) but after doing some research on it I can see the similarities between us, and I think it would be the most appropriate choice.
In general, eagles are solitary and perceptive creatures. Very few things escape their clutches when they set their mind on something. The Wedge-tailed eagle is no different; being one of the largest birds of prey in the world and capable of sustaining flight for hours on end without much exertion or work on their part. Furthermore, their eyesight extends into the ultraviolet range, which helps them see rising thermals and zone in on areas that would help them gain altitude with little effort. That makes it in my eyes a very efficient animal that plays to its strengths -characteristics that I can definitely affiliate with and appreciate.
The wegde-tailed eagles are also very aerial creatures, an ideal trait since I'm a lover of open spaces. The more room there is the less claustrophobic I feel. Adding to that, their natural habitat is in Australia, which has a climate that is mostly desert with tropical regions here and there. It would suit me perfectly.
Behaviour-wise and personality-wise, eagles are creatures that will always retain a fierce sense of independence regardless of how much training they may be given. They’re rarely encountered -being so solitary- and often stand out. They are wanderers, and I think that was the deciding factor in choosing my animagus form. Servals, domestic cats, and screech owls all have a ‘territory’ they mainly operate from. Whilst they may venture outside of it, they always return if only to avoid larger predators or conflicts with other owls/servals/cats. Eagles however are different.
Likewise I’m likely to avoid being tied down to a relationship or situation, not because I don’t want to be in it, but because I don’t want to give up the freedom of being elsewhere should I so choose. I enjoy travelling and am quite adaptable to new cultures/modes of conduct. Rarely have I felt homesickness. I think that fits an eagle’s personality more so than the other animals I was given.
Ria, Slytherin
2012-04-17
#567 -
nickershnick25 - California Valley Coyote
I never thought that I would choose a canine form as I am not a big fan of dogs but the vote for the California Valley Coyote was very well described and sounded so much like me that I couldn’t choose anything else. Coyotes are pretty fast on land and can also swim which fits well with the traits that I wanted like not being confined to one environment and having abilities that I don’t possess in human form. I think that one of the main reasons of having an Animagus form is that you would be able to have experiences that you don’t get to have as a human. Being able to run across the land at up 43 mph or jump 13 feet would be amazing and then still be able to dive in to a lake and swim across it even better. Coyotes tend to travel in small packs or pairs and this goes well with my tendency to keep to myself. Also like the coyote I am definitely a carnivore, though I prefer my meat to be cooked. Like the voter mentioned another thing that connects me to the coyote is my adaptability. The coyote watches their prey and decides on an attack strategy based on what animal it is. Coyotes thrive in suburban and sometimes urban areas which also very fitting with me as I have always lived in a city and would not do well in a rural area. Coyotes are also very difficult to tame which is extremely representative of me because I do not like to relinquish control to anyone and don’t like being told what to do. They are also intelligent creatures and pick up things by observing. Overall I think that the Coyote is a great fit as it not only covers the abilities and traits that I wanted to have but also the abilities and traits I already possess.
Nicole, Slytherin
2012-04-17
#568 -
recklessblues - Northwest Coast Coyote
I chose the Northwest Coast coyote. Sitting here now, it's been a little hard for me to describe my connection with this creature any further without repeating myself because I mentioned my connection with and identification with the coyote in the application. I think that my way of life fits the coyote. We're beautiful, but vermin - it's good for a gutter kid like me - and as vermin we slip seamlessly into the world, we live in forests or in cities. Wherever we are, we can be wild. We endure. I can run and hunt and be all out all night in the rain - there's no kind of skin I would rather live in. I can't imagine an animal that I would be more comfortable being. I like also the spiritual, sexual, and transgressive nature of the coyote in (some) NDN traditions, I think it suits me as a queer man and as someone who's always identified with some kind of the underworld, having been on the streets especially, I always thought of myself and the people around me as an outlier, with some different kind of way of living, thinking, and being. It's necessary for any kind of artist to themselves be a trickster ... and it's some trick, trying to live the way of life that I have. My boyfriend always called me something that translates to "non-white wolf" ...
Sevastian, Gryffindor
2012-05-08
#569 -
beautifulbluee - Green Kingfisher
I think that out of all of my wonderful options, the Green Kingfisher is the best for me. I liked right away that it combined my wanted to live by the water with my deep connection to wanting to fly. After seeing my choices, I realized how important being free and flying is to me. It really represents my personality and the kind of person that I am. I can be by the water I love and still get the extreme rush of diving through the air. I can easily change my location, which is a big deal to me.
I love how striking the Green Kingfisher is. It likes to stand out just like me. It really represents my love of fashion and looking good. That is what drew me to this bird as opposed to the other water bird that was chosen for me as well.
I think the best part is that this animal form would truly give me the best of both worlds, water and air. It seems to be a great match with everything I was looking for. It's also bubbly with lots of energy and that is a good representation of my human form. I think that I would really enjoy becoming this bird.
Lindsay, Hufflepuff
2012-05-08
#570 -
samelthecamel - Peregrine Falcon
For my animagus form I will have to choose the Peregrine Falcon. Although I felt drawn to all four choices as all seemed to fit me well in one way or another. I felt the most drawn to the Peregrine Falcon. I absolutely adore birds, and especially the bigger more striking of the species.
I have a major love for heights. Standing on the edge of something and looking down at how small things are has always fascinated me. I'm usually the one when visiting tall things like cliffs with overhangs, tall buildings, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Gloucester Tree to be the first one to lean over and look down at how high up we are from everything. The fact that Peregrine Falcons nests in tall buildings and cliffs suits me perfectly. I'd feel safest off the grown from all the threat down below too.
Being able to fly as an animagus would be amazing. I've always loved the feel of the wind in my face on windy days or from fast boat rides and motorcycles. Adding the heights into that would make it even better. With the great speeds of the Peregrine Falcon reaching to more than 300km/h in swoop mode, which is known to be the fastest animal in existence, I would feel less threatened in my animagus form and quite well equipped to protect myself from predators.
I also picked the Peregrine Falcon because it is native and known to nest within walking distance of my house. Taking on an animagus form sometimes requires you to fit into your surroundings and I would never feel out of place transforming into a Peregrine Falcon. They are also known to be nocturnal in some cases and suits my sleeping patterns perfectly.
Sam, Hufflepuff
2012-05-06
#572 -
stillandstorm - Australian Cattle Dog
When I first saw my choices, I was drawn immediately to the exotic bengal tiger and the bad ass looking echidna. However, when I really started looking at the personality traits of these animals, I realized quickly that the Australian Cattle Dog was the form for me. I have always been drawn to dogs. I truly believe that they can be mans best friend. I, myself, have a bullmastiff named Diesel who is my baby. Pretty amusing when you realize that he is, well, bigger than I am.
To me, dogs live their lives the way that I would love too. They get so much joy out of life, out of the simplest things, and they love unconditionally. I, like the Australian Cattle Dog, am very protective of those I love the most. I am intelligent, loyal, and I can be quite energetic at times. I am also a very quick learner, and I love a challenge. I need to be doing something or I will go crazy. The Australian Cattle Dog is not an aggressive dog, but is trained to bite or nip at the herd to get them going. I feel like that relates to me in the sense that I am very sarcastic, and I love to poke fun at people. I don't bite to hurt, I bite because that's just what I do.
I also like that most of the injuries that happen to the Australian Cattle Dog are accidental. I am prone to accident, and most of the time, if I get hurt its because I accidentally hurt myself. Furthermore, Australian Cattle Dogs can be used as assistance dogs, which makes my little heart happy because, well, I love helping people.
All in all, the Australian Cattle Dog, just feels perfect for me.
Nikki, Gryffindor
2012-05-24
#573 -
amberdowny -- Bengal
I've loved cats all my life. I'm definitely a crazy cat lady. And over the years, I've realized that I'm pretty cat-like too. Not in terms of agility or anything--unless you count "dead-cat-like reflexes". I like to think I'm independent and the boss of my house, but I'm just as happy to curl up in someone's lap and be petted. And that's not really a metaphor.... As I was researching, I found a line that said snow Bengal kittens like to be the center of attention. And that's pretty much true of me. I love attention. And did I mention being petted? Cats also love to play, and I consider myself a pretty playful person. Domestic cats also apparently live in an extended kittenhood, and I'm definitely still a kid at heart. Just the other day, I got a Happy Meal, ate it at the park, and then went and played on the swings.
The Bengal cat is also a cross between a domestic cat and an Asian Leopard Cat, which is a wild cat. So the Bengals are nice and gentle (if they're far enough removed from the original crossing) but I feel like that implies they have a kind of wild side buried in there somewhere. And I'm a generally nice person, but I can snap and be mean at times too (maybe I'm only second generation or something, haha). As for their appearance, the snow-spotted Bengal has blue eyes, like me, and is lighter than the brown one, so that fits with my lighter hair. They also have "mascara" markings around their eyes, which amuses me, because if I bother with makeup at all, it's always mascara.
Amber, Ravenclaw
2012-05-24
#574 -
hbics -- Lusitano
While researching my choices, I realized that all choices had aspects of my personality, but they also had traits that I don’t particularly see in myself. For example, the English Cocker Spaniel has my stubbornness, but it is also obedient and loyal to levels I do not believe myself to be. By determining which qualities I have more prevalently and a process of elimination, I have decided on the Lusitano horse for a few reasons.
I’ve always felt a larger connection to horses than dogs. As much as I love dogs, they’ve always seemed too social for me. Don’t get me wrong, I’m often a social person, but I feel like horses correspond to my sense of balance between introversion and extroversion. I feel like I can be either depending on the situation. Horses are social animals and prefer to live in a group, but they are also adaptable enough to spend time on their own. They make friends easily and are open-minded in doing so (they can form companionship attachments to with other animals and humans, not just other horses). These are all traits and qualities that I relate to.
The Lusitano specifically is calm, brave, and undaunted: characteristics I feel correspond to my stubbornness and passion. If tested, there is quite the possibility my level of courage could be that of this breed, and if not, I think it is a reasonable difference in personality in my animagus form. It can also be a warm and affectionate horse. I think of all the choices, it is the one that represents my balance of dichotomous characteristics.
Lastly, the Lusitano is said to be intelligent and of a willing nature. I am fairly open-minded and strive to try and learn new things when I can. For these reasons, I feel that of my choices, the Lusitano is the best representation of my personality. It is the choice I feel the most connected to.
Emma, Gryffindor
2012-05-30
#575 -
starianprincess -- West Highland White Terrier
I have always identified best with dogs for their loyalty and their connection to humans, so when I saw my options I was quite set on the Westie. As I read more about my choices though, I came to realize that while I did share commonalities with all of them, I simply also found myself drawn to my initial one. For instance, like the Westie, I can be very friendly with others but I also greatly treasure my time alone. I identify more as an introvert and enjoy examining my thoughts at the end of the day. I am independent and self-confident, and if I were specifically tasked with protecting people or in terms of watching out for those I cared about, I would definitely fight to the last breath for them. I can also be incredibly stubborn and possessive, depending on the circumstances. With Westies, this may lead to issues with training and in correlation, for me, this may lead to my perception of others. Such that when a person has left a particular impression on me, no matter what others say later, I tend to stand by my own judgment.
In writing this essay, I've also asked my mom for advice as she is a dog breeder and judge, and has come across Westies many times. It was pleasantly surprising when, after she thought about it, she agreed that she could see me as a Westie as well. Because of my drive and passion for life, because of my curiosity about the world, my need to ask questions, she said it was a perfect fit. There is also something about terriers, something about their playfulness and generally cheery personas that fit well with my own character. And seeing as this applies to physical attributes as well, my mom pointed out my size. Like the Westie, I am small (and spunky) and now that I think about it, there's a mysterious sort of symbolism in having a soft but thick undercoat and rough outer coat which, again, speaks volumes about who I am as a person.
Kat, Gryffindor
2012-05-31
#576 -
tombrobber -- Nankeen Kestrel
Ever since I was a kid, I identified with birds. I envied them at the same time that I loved them. Their freedom to move around freely, to get above everything that is earthly, and to see things from a different perspective. And while I envied their flight, I felt that I connected to them very deeply. When I meditate, I let my mind take flight like a bird, soaring above the world without a care.
What makes the Nankeen Kestrel unique, however, is its monogamous relationship. The bird finds a partner and sticks with it, and that’s how I am in my everyday life. I’ve been with the same person for over three years now and I can see it continuing on into the end of our lives. At the same time, Nankeen Kestrels don’t always form flocks. They are scattered across the Australian wild and will only form groups if the conditions are perfect. In my life, I only find a couple of friends when everything is simply perfect. Only then will I bond and form groups. It takes a lot to become my friend, but like this particular bird, when I am your friend I will stay loyal forever.
In addition to all of that, the Nankeen Kestrel is not the typical bird of prey. It doesn’t rely on speed to hunt. Instead, it simply waits. It stalks. It circles and thinks and contemplates. And when I have deemed that something needs to be attacked, I’m not sneaky about it. I take time to think upon my plan of action, and I don’t try to mask my true intentions. I’m very upfront when something upsets me, especially when it concerns those around me.
And last but not least is the appearance. This bird is small, and slight. It can’t possibly rely on size to survive. I definitely feel the same way. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in focus. Like most birds of prey, it is determined to survive despite its diminutive nature. Much like me. Not to mention our colors are similar. Not spectacular, but unique in their own right, like my oddly colored hair (which I love).
I honestly could not be happier with this choice that has been given to me. I appreciate everyone who voted. :)
Jessica, Slytherin
2012-06-02
#577 -
muku_muku -- Savannah
So, to be honest, I was a bit at a loss at first with my choices. None of them stuck out or really pinged (and none were Asian; this is me crying on the inside a bit), but I’ll also admit to ignorance and being confused by “what is a Savannah??” And then it was off to research! Except all of twenty minutes of google-fu really didn’t help at all besides mostly crossing the shorthair off the list.
I ended up talking to a few close friends of mine about how I really, really wasn’t a tiger at all, and then we spent a good hour or two looking at pictures of Savannah kittens. Which, let’s be fair, is really the part that sold me; I’d already been pretty sure I was going to go with a cat, and okay, the Gryfalcon didn’t register into our discussions much (besides the standard “but what is it anyway” bits). There were a few points of the Savannah that were way off, like the canine loyalty and trainability with leashes (um excuuuse me), but then there were also some traits that were disturbingly spot on: the propensity for jumping and seeking out high places, inquisitiveness and a tendency to make a bit of a mess, playfulness in water, intelligence, chirping noises. Plus a good portion of the pictures I turned up involved hugs and cuddles, and I love hugs and cuddles.
And then of course I rationalized all the traits that didn’t apply to me as being slightly exaggerated by breeders to make the pet seem more appealing and, well, petlike. That, though, is a whole different issue. Domestication itself rubs me the wrong way; as much as I enjoy comfort and being cared for, I value personal freedom more and honestly would make an awful household pet. But, see, the Savannah isn’t inherently a pet; it’s taking something wild and mixing it with something tame, but that edge of wildness never really goes away. That’s probably why Savannahs are banned in Australia. Savannahs are large, bigger than most if not all domesticated cats, and their instincts still take largely after their Serval bloodlines. So I’d be an F1 hybrid, 50% Serval, and capable of taking care of myself but also domestic enough that I can exist in civilized areas, since I am admittedly drawn to cities (and I guess domestication is really just what you make of it, in the end). And then the domestic cat half would obviously be Bengal, which is part Asian leopard cat and also part of my rationalization process.
And I’ll also admit to being surprised by the Savannah as a choice (tbqh I still want to see that vote and reasoning); it’s not something I would have come up with and there’s a layer of uniqueness that I like to say I can see in myself, haha. I think the baseline connection is that, with this cat, I don’t know what to expect and that’s something I see in myself a lot of the time, too. I’m unpredictable at times, and there are layered depths to me that not even the most diligent googling can uncover.
Claire, Gryffindor
2012-06-08
#578 -
green_queen -- California Sea Lion
I found it hard to choose; I was excited at first when I saw hippos on the list, but I decided they were too aggressive and lonely for me, and I loved the two options that I was given explanations for (California Sea Lion and Chesapeake Bay Retriever). I love dogs and the retrievers are just gorgeous, but I think ultimately it was my love of California and my desire to go back there that clinched the Sea Lion its victory for me.
There's something really fun about sea lions - they're kind of cheeky and fun, but they also like to have a lot of down time, which suits me really well. They seem to up for playing games and messing around, which works quite well for me - I still get a kick out of playing Simon Says with the kids at work. They're great parents, and although I'm not a parent I do work with children, so I value that nurturing nature. Sea lions at the zoo also seem really friendly and approachable, which are qualities I strive for in my work and life, and they're quite social in small groups. Also, reading through Wikipedia, I found this both amusing and accurate: "[females] avoid males that are too aggressive, rowdy or attentive". I love that they co-operate with other ocean mammals to hunt, and I find salmon delicious. I also appreciate the sea lion's intelligence, because it means I would still have some awareness even in my animal form, and I wouldn't just be an easy target.
I appreciate that the sea lions are comfortable both on land and in the water, because that was really something I wanted in my animagus form - I love swimming but don't get a lot of opportunity to do it, and I feel a connection to the water. I like the idea of getting away under the water for a while and they're such powerful swimmers. I can imagine myself finding a lot to enjoy in the life of a California Sea Lion.
Green Queen, Gryffindor
2012-06-07
#580 -
meredith44 -- Gunnison's Prairie Dog
When I first saw Meerkat as I choice, I instinctively wanted to go for it, because it was what I had thought I wanted. But in reading the description, it turned out that it really wasn't the best fit for me. The best fit was actually the Gunnison's Prairie Dog.
I am not necessarily a fan of its location or the hibernation, but that pretty much was the only thing that didn't fit me.
I loved that it lives in groups of two to nineteen individuals. That is enough interaction that I wouldn't get completely bored, but not large groups which would overwhelm me.
I liked that it was diurnal and an herbivore, as those were both aspects that I think correlate well with myself. Especially that while active during the day, it stays underground during the hottest part of the day, as I have a tendency to want to do nothing when I'm hot.
Another thing that I'd asked for was the ability to run and/or hide, as I'm not big on fighting, and the Gunnison's Prairie Dog fits that perfectly. It has eyes on the sides of its head, so that it can see predators very well. And when it does, it runs and hides in its holes in the ground. That basically is exactly what I think I would do if I were an animal.
I like that the animal is seemingly intelligent, as shown by it distinguishing things between people, like clothing and whether the people are threatening.
The thing that really sold me on the Gunnison's Prairie Dog was its communication skills. I talked early and I talk a lot. I love that this animal is also a talker and that it has such a complex language system. (The fact it also communicates through cuddling was a plus, as I love giving the kids in my class hugs.)
Meredith, Hufflepuff
2012-06-27
#581 -
bergeronprocess -- Yellow-headed Blackbird
The yellow-headed blackbird is a perfect Animagus fit for me for many reasons. The blackbird is small in stature, just as I am. I read that the males have the worst songs of any American bird; lucky me that I’m female then, huh? Anyway, the yellow-headed blackbird likes to stay in warm, marshy areas. Being from the South, and having visited marshy areas myself, I am accustomed to this kind of environment. However, the yellow-headed blackbird likes to travel and has been found as far north as northern Alberta. They’ve even found a few in Iceland and Northern Europe! As I like to travel, that works well too. The yellow-headed blackbird has been described as gregarious, which I like to think I am too, especially to my family and friends. On a similar note, yellow-headed blackbirds have been described as somewhat helpful to humans because they eat insects that might be annoying to people or harmful to people, especially farmers. Sometimes I like to hope-or think-that I am helpful to others. I think I would also enjoy being a bird and having the ability to fly. It’s definitely an experience you don’t get to have as a human, at least not on the same scale as a bird, and something I would enjoy in Animagus form.
Emma, Hufflepuff
2012-06-22
#582 -
babykid528 -- Siberian Husky
All of the choices for my animagus were so fitting in their own ways that I had a hard time choosing, but it comes down to the one I have always felt an affinity for, the one I have always adored, and that's the main reason I'm choosing the Siberian Husky.
I have always been, and will always be, a dog person. That's not to say I only love dogs, but I have been obsessed with them since I was a kid. I used to run around the house on all fours, barking and whining, like a puppy. Sure, I would pretend to be other animals: horses, dolphins, chipmunks, cats. But I was a dog most often. And I wanted one for a pet desperately! (My parents didn't get one until I was a senior in high school.)
I was especially fond of sled dogs while I was growing up. Malamutes, Samoyeds, and Huskies were my favorites. I read every book I could find about every breed I could think of, but those three were the ones I read about most often. I had this dream of one day running the Iditarod. I wanted to own a whole pack of sled dogs and live in a huge cabin in Alaska (with a hand-made quilt on every bed). I was an odd child. haha!
As I'm sure you can imagine, Balto was a big deal for me. I LOVED the story of how he helped get the medicine to the village, and the valiant service he provided. He was the epitome of man's best friend, of the bravery and tenacity I wanted to embody as a person. The research I've done over the years, and most recently in preparation for this essay, has pointed out some surprising similarities between this breed and myself. I have the terrible habit of wandering off ahead of people, especially in stores (I drive everyone nuts), which huskies apparently will do if let off the leash. I need a lot of mental stimulation, otherwise my mind wanders, another husky trait. I love to sing, and I have always loved the sound of howling, which is a trademark of the husky breed. Huskies also are terrible guard dogs because they're not meant to be aggressive, and while I can snap at people pretty spectacularly, I am mostly passive myself. Also, huskies are incredibly observant and can mimic behaviors, and I am nothing if not a great mimic.
While autumn is my favorite season, I love ALL the seasons, and I love the idea of being able to roll around in the snow or leaves in this animagus form!! I also love being snuggled in blankets, so all that fur will be wonderful. I love having my hair played with, and huskies need to be brushed often. Plus, with fur that long and thick, I am sure the wind whipping through it would be incredible, and standing facing the wind as it flows over and through me is one of my absolute favorite things, and I think it would be just as enjoyable in this animagus form.
Anne, Hufflepuff
2012-06-26
#583 -
ansera -- Northern Coyote
One of the things I find most important in my own life is family. When I was picking an animal then, I went through how they raised their families, and I realized that the Northern Coyote lives in family groups and some are permanently monogamous, even their territories are exclusive to the pack. The idea of a pack is almost how I view my family (protection and a willingness to sacrifice amongst other things) and it's the first thing that drew me to this beautiful creature.
As a person living through strange circumstances sometimes, I appreciate adaptability and versatility. This is why on reading that the Northern Coyote is active throughout the year. This may seem a strange thing to pick on, but this means that things like climate and weather conditions don’t impact it as much as it would other animals; it means that the coyote is -above everything- a survivor. It runs at amazingly fast speeds and can swim well too, which is a comfort to me since I won’t have to worry terribly about food or escape or even shelter. Basic necessities are found and grasped, and I need this as a person and I think this transfers to my Animagus.
The Northern Coyote also has a reputation. And it’s not a particularly friendly one. But despite all this, it’s impossible to deny that it’s loyal to its pack; it protects itself and its own. This reminds me of me, of the fact that I don’t have to be nice to be good. On a more practical note, it also keeps others away -be it people or animals- which ensures safety (and who doesn’t like being safe). I truly think having this form would let me by myself, except allow me to see me and feel more and even have more than I could as a human being.
Mia, Slytherin
2012-06-22
#585 -
kinglii -- Eurasian Magpie
The main, and most meaningful, reason behind me choosing this animagus form is that I feel an emotional connection to this bird. The Eurasian Magpie is in the crow family and my last name means 'son of crow'.
Birds are small and annoying and that's how I describe myself. The Eurasian Magpie, specifically, fits my personality perfectly. They're known to tease cats sometimes and I don't like cats. They're also really intelligent, and intelligence is really important to me. It isn't a quality that I judge people by or even expect from someone in order to be friends with them but it's very important to me that I be intelligent. Magpies are also capable of mirror self-recognition and looking in the mirror is one of my favourite things to do because I am self-centred and vain. And because I am vain, I love that this bird is so beautiful with it glossy, iridescent wings that shimmer green/blue/purple.
If nothing else, this bird is known for stealing shiny things. And my biggest obstacle in life will forever be my ridiculous attraction to anything and everything that is shiny or sparkly.
Basically, this little bird is me, or I am it, and I need to figure out a way to communicate with it soon so we can steal shiny things together.
Lii, Ravenclaw
2012-07-25
#586 -
cattiechaos -- Asian Black Bear
Why the Asian black bear? For one, it bears relevance to note that I am Asian and the Asian black bear is, obviously, Asian. All joking aside, I immediately connected to this animal for several reasons: first, they are said to have "outstanding learning ability" and "are the comedians of performing bears...They appear to appreciate applause and [want to] gain laughter and attention." I love to learn and more importantly, I am an entertainer -- to me, making people laugh is the best feeling in the world. Secondly, Kipling describes the Asian black bear as "the most bizarre of the ursine species" and well, that's putting it nicely -- I am most definitely eccentric. They are called "bizarre" because they can sometimes be unusually aggressive, and that fits me as well -- I'm generally quite peaceable but if you get me mad, prepare to die! Asian black bears are also slender and lightly-built, which fits my appearance to a T. Finally, Asian black bears are featured prominently in mythology, from being a mountain spirit in Japanese folklore to helping Rama defeat Ravana in Hindu mythology. These bears clearly know how to go down in style, and for that and all the reasons above, I think the Asian black bear and I are two sides of the same coin :D
Catherine, Slytherin
2012-07-23
#587 -
abcdefghijkatie -- Jack Russell Terrier
At first I was actually slightly disappointed in my animagus choices. I didn't really feel a strong connection to any of them right off the bat. One of the things I stressed in my application was that I like being unique and somehow differentiated from others. Voters provided me with two choices that fit that bill, I think (a toucan or flamingo) but then I realized that I am unique in more subtle ways than just POW bright colors and whatnot. I asked my sister for advice and she promptly responded with "OMG you are SO Jack Russell Terrier!!!" which sort of made me raise my eyebrows a bit. BUT! I read more about the Jack Russell Terrier and concluded that yes, it was for me.
Firstly, the Jack Russell Terrier is categorized as a Working Terrier. Although I don't literally burrow into the ground and chase out animals, I am very much a working-oriented person. When given a task, I follow directions very well and at my current job I'm in a position where I pretty much have to complete a lot of tasks just for the purpose of helping someone else achieve their goal or goals. Even outside of the workplace though, I have always worked hard and had the drive to push on to finish things to the very end. Jack Russell Terriers and I are both perseverant (and stubborn!) little beings. I think the stubbornness and perseverance tie together for me, because sometimes the main motivator for me to keep working on something is simply my pride, and desire to stick to my original intent because I'm too stubborn to change even my own mind. Jack Russell Terriers will also not hesitate to stand their ground.
Secondly, the Jack Russell Terrier is a very athletic dog. I was an athlete in high school and haven't since found a volleyball team to join, so it's great that my animagus be a high-energy sporty animal. Running around and expounding all my energy as this dog is definitely an ideal outlet for me to feel like the athlete I used to be a few years ago. Plus, I'm a goofball and would love even just chasing my tail for fun.
I didn't ever see myself as having a dog animagus, but I do really like the idea of the Jack Russell Terrier being mine. Although dogs aren't general known for their unique traits and individuality in their appearances like I was originally hoping for in my animagus, dogs definitely each have unique personalities and that's something I can get behind!
Katie, Hufflepuff
2012-07-28
#588 -
lucentvictrola - Delicate Mouse
I've felt connected to rodents ever since I had pet rats as a kid and noticed their gracefulness and intelligence, so when I was given the delicate mouse as a choice I knew it was the right pick for me. First of all, there's the name: "delicate." "Delicate" implies two things to me. The first is fragility, ease of being hurt. I don't have a very thick skin, and it's easy to get to me emotionally. I also fear conflict or any sort of physical harm, so that aspect of being delicate applies to me. The other implication is someone who acts delicately. I try my best not to offend people, and I usually tiptoe around tough situations, so I'd say I'm delicate. There's also the idea of something delicate being beautiful, like a porcelain teacup, and I like that aspect as well. Plus there's the noun "delicacy," which refers to something unique. Although I'm not a food item, I do think I'm unique in personality.
There's also the practicalities of being a mouse. I don't eat meat, so it'll be helpful to be an herbivorous creature so that I don't have to starve myself when I'm in my animagus form. Mice are also somewhat social but not pack animals. I do like to have a friend or two around (as do mice; you really shouldn't have just one) but I don't want a ton of people around all the time, so the lifestyle of a mouse fits with mine. Delicate mice are nocturnal, which fits my lifestyle as well, and they live in the dry savanna, which would suit me weather-wise. You might not think that being able to turn into a mouse would be useful, but it would make me great at escaping battle, hiding, and sneaking around doing reconnaissance, making me a great asset to the wizarding community.
Miranda, Ravenclaw
2012-08-22
#589 -
caitieness - Maned Sloth
The maned sloth is exactly the kind of animal I was hoping for when I applied to be an animagus. It's a forest-dwelling creature, which was the first thing that attracted me to the choice. A forest is right outside my house and when I was younger, I spent most of my time wandering around in it. Being able to climb trees in my animal form is also really important to me because I love being up in trees but I don't particularly like birds. The maned sloth spends its entire life up in trees, going to the ground only when it doesn't have another choice. But what really made me choose this animal is its overall slowness. I am admittedly very lazy. My boyfriend even calls me "Lazy" as a nickname sometimes. Sloths are thought to be lazy but the truth is, the maned sloth is just slow in everything it does: eats slowly, moves slowly, blinks slowly! Because it is a herbivore, the maned sloth doesn't have to waste time hunting, instead it moves through the trees to find leaves to munch on. The sloth doesn't want to expand any unnecessary energy and neither do I! Plus it spends most of its time sleeping, which is just about my favorite thing to do. Every little behavioral thing about the maned sloth relates to me and I can't wait for it to be my animagus, even if mites and fleas and ticks live in its fur.
Caitie, Hufflepuff
2012-08-17
#590 -
francesh51 - Turkish Van
To be honest, since I read the descriptions for the Turkish Van (which was...on the first day my choices came out), I knew in my heart that this was a form that fit me perfectly, but I delayed the writing of this essay until now because I wanted to find more reasons as to why the Swift Fox would fit me instead. I wanted to be the swift fox since I saw my choices, and I was even convinced by a few others who told me that they would choose the swift fox as well, if they were in my place. However, I didn't feel it was right to choose the swift fox, after reading about the turkish van.
The turkish van fits me well because it is a behaves in a dog-like manner, but is still a cat. I have always thought that I fit dogs more, as I have the loyalty of a dog (and hey, I was born in the year of the dog), but I loved cats a wee bit more. Being a turkish van is a perfect solution. As a cat, the turkish van can also climb high all over the place (on bookshelves, tables, etc) to satisfy its curious nature, and I can definitely identify with that. This paragraph that I found online fits me perfectly as well, "Like a lion, the Van loves to survey its "pride" from on high, secure in its home and the people it has bonded with. And like a lion, the Van is known for being brave, and for being an excellent hunter. It can be very protective, growling when it hears unusual sounds from outside. The Van cat builds a strong, close bond with one or two people, remaining devoted for a lifetime; it does not do well to change owners."
The turkish van also fits me physically. It is considered a larger species of cat, with a muscular build -which fits me as I'm quite tall and muscular (completely the opposite of the Swift Fox, which is small for foxes). It also has big ears, which describes my good ear for music.
What clinched the choice for me was reading about the turkish van's unusual intelligence. I consulted in my brother about whether, "a cat or a fox would fit me better", to which he immediately replied, "fox because it's smart." The turkish van is described to be a fast learner who can learn to open windows, so I respect its intelligence. Lastly, the fact that the swift fox spends most of its time underground does not really appeal to me, as I do not like the feeling of being contained with no views for above.
AND PLUS, THE TURKISH VAN CAN SWIM. HOW COOL IS THAT?! :D So even though it is a domestic cat, I can still explore all over the place with it, so I will never feel restrained from a lack of freedom.
Fran, Gryffindor
2012-08-22
#591 -
autumn_mist - Ocelot
Before it was suggested as my Animagus form, I wasn't really all that familiar with what an Ocelot was, but after reading up on all the choices given to me, I believe that it would be the best match for me, and (hopefully) you'll agree after reading my reasons why:
The Ocelot is territorial and will fight to the death to protect it's territory and it's offspring. While I'm not a particularly an aggressive person, I will do whatever it takes to protect those I love, and the home we've built together. They are solitary and nocturnal creatures, and I personally prefer night over day and I do not like to be around large amounts of people. I am also drawn to the markings of an Ocelot as they enable it to stand out in a crowd (much like my tattoos). The Ocelot is adaptable, which is a trait I prize in myself. The fact that Ocelot mothers will stay with their offspring for up to 2 years also speaks to me on a personal level. I love my children more than anything, and I dread the day that they are old enough to leave home. Even though the Ocelot is described as a "wild" animal, there are instances of them being "tamed" and kept as pets. While I don't consider myself "a pet", I will admit that I was definitely a bit wild in my younger years, and have definitely been "tamed" by my family, so that too strikes me about the Ocelot. Finally, I wanted something that was quick & agile, protective & adaptable, and the Ocelot definitely fits the bill. I believe it is the perfect animagus for me, and I am thrilled to have it.
Krystal, Slytherin
2012-08-17
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