The Penguipus
The Penguipus is a semi-aquatic half bird half mammal found when crossing an Emperor Penguin with a Duck Billed Platypus. Whilst neither parent animal are found together in the wild or anywhere near the indigenous home of the Penguipus, this incredible species can only be found in a the small town of Beverley in the United Kingdom.
Biology
Pregnancy
In spite of the fact that little is known about the birthing cycle of this majestic creature, Scientists have estimated that the Penguipus has a gestation cycle of approximately 42 days and an additional 19 days before their eggs begin to hatch. Penguipus babies have neither feathers nor fur when they are born bu usually end up with either brown feathers of black and white fur within 2-3 weeks.
Anatomy
When considering the features of a penguipus, there are two things to consider, a penguin with platypus features and a platypus with penguin features, neither of which have been studied well as the creature was only discovered on the 11th of June 2021. The current understanding of the anatomy of a penguipus is that the contrast of its fur against feathers allow it to move more quickly through water and its beaver like tale allows it to defend against attacks from its natural predator, the Pigeon.
History
Discovery
The Penguipus was first discovered on the 11th of June 2021 by two Biologists Dr. Jukes and Dr. Palmer in their home town, the small town Beverley in the East of the United Kingdom. This discovery was actually an accident after both individuals were discussing the creation of an all Penguin and Platypus zoo to help the endangered species recover.
The Naming Controversy
Only a few days after the discovery of this new and amazing creature a small problem arose, what should it be named? Whilst a variety of names were suggested only two of them managed to get any real attention creating a rivalry between those who supported the name Penguipus and those who supported Platyguin. This controversy was put to an end rather quickly when the two founders announced their support for the former mentioned Penguipus. However the issues surrounding the name were far from over, now that the singular name penguipus had been decided, the plural name also needed to be. Despite 5 plurals being suggested only 3 managed to get any backing, Penguipi, Penguipuses and the rather odd Penguipodes. This debate still rages on to this day.
