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Changes: Bantha/Legends

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{{Eras}}
  
{{Eras}}
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{{Citation}}
  
 
{{Youmay|the bantha species|[[Bantha (disambiguation)|other uses of the term]]}}
  
{{Youmay|the bantha species|[[Bantha (disambiguation)|other uses of the term]]}}
 
{{Species
  
{{Species
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|name=Bantha
  
|name=Bantha
 
|designation=
  
|designation=
  +
|class=[[Mammal]]<ref name="Stay">''[[Stay on Target]]''</ref>
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|class=
  
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|planet=Found on multiple worlds including [[Tatooine]]
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|planet=Found on multiple worlds including [[Tatooine]]<ref name="A New Hope">[[Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope|''Star Wars'': Episode IV ''A New Hope'']]</ref>
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|habitat=
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|habitat=*Desert<ref name="A New Hope" />
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|diet=[[Diet|Herbivorous]]<ref name="CharEnc">''[[Star Wars Character Encyclopedia]]''</ref>
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*Forest<ref name="SWR 82 HE2">''[[Star Wars: Republic 82: Hidden Enemy, Part 2]]''</ref>
  +
*Mountains<ref name="Kilian">{{WizardsCite|url=starwars/article.asp?x=sw20010830a_bantha&c=rpg|text=Kilian Bantha|int=Kilian Bantha (article)}}</ref>
  +
|diet=[[Diet|Herbivorous]]<ref name="CharEnc">''[[Star Wars Character Encyclopedia]]''</ref><ref name="TCSWE">{{CSWECite|I|59|bantha}}</ref>
 
|language=
  
|language=
 
|height=2.5 [[Imperial standard meter|meters]]<ref name="CharEnc" />
  
|height=2.5 [[Imperial standard meter|meters]]<ref name="CharEnc" />
 
|length=
  
|length=
 
|wingspan=
  
|wingspan=
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|mass=1,000 [[kilogram]]s<ref name="H2H">''[[Star Wars: Head-to-Head Tag Teams]]''</ref>
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|mass=4,000 [[kilogram]]s<ref name="Wildlife">''[[The Wildlife of Star Wars: A Field Guide]]''</ref>
 
|skincolor=
  
|skincolor=
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|haircolor=*[[Color|Off-white]]<ref name="TEGtAS">''[[The Essential Guide to Alien Species]]''</ref>
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|haircolor=
  
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*Tan<ref name="TEGtAS" />
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*Light brown<ref name="TEGtAS" />
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*Brown<ref name="TEGtAS" />
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*Black<ref name="TEGtAS" />
 
|feathers=
  
|feathers=
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|eyecolor=[[Color|Red]]<ref name="EP4Script">''Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope'' script</ref>
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|eyecolor=Red<ref name="EP4Script">''Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope'' script</ref>
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|distinctions=
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|distinctions=*Horns<ref name ="Wildlife" />
  +
*Long [[hair]]<ref name="Stay" />
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*4 legged<ref name="TCSWE" />
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*Produce [[blue milk]]<ref name="Stay" />
 
|lifespan=80-100 years<ref name="CharEnc" />
  
|lifespan=80-100 years<ref name="CharEnc" />
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|races=*Common bantha
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|races=*Common bantha<ref name="Wildlife" />
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*[[Dune bantha]]
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*[[Dune bantha]]<ref name="Wildlife" />
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*[[Dwarf bantha]]
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*[[Dwarf bantha]]<ref name="Wildlife" />
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*[[Kashyyyk bantha]]
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*[[Kashyyyk bantha]]<ref name="SWR 82 HE2" />
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*[[Kilian Bantha]]
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*[[Kilian Bantha]]<ref name="Kilian" />
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*[[Swamp bantha]]<ref name="Gungan Frontier">''[[Star Wars Episode I: The Gungan Frontier]]''</ref>
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*[[Swamp bantha]]
  
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|members=*[[Bangor]]<ref name="JJKP">''[[Junior Jedi Knights: Promises]]''</ref>
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|members=}}
  
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*[[Rrr'ur'R]]<ref name="A New Hope" />
  +
*[[Urtagh]]<ref name="TOR">''[[Star Wars: The Old Republic]]''</ref>
  +
}}
 
{{Quote|Baby banthas are quite cute&hellip;|[[Darth Vectivus]]|Legacy of the Force: Betrayal}}
  
{{Quote|Baby banthas are quite cute&hellip;|[[Darth Vectivus]]|Legacy of the Force: Betrayal}}
−
'''Banthas''' were sturdy and easily domesticated beasts of burden that were found all over [[the galaxy]]. The '''common bantha''', or '''''bantha majorus''''', was the most commonly known species, with the other subspecies considered generally rare.
 +
'''Banthas''' were sturdy and easily domesticated [[mammal]]s used as beasts of burden that were found all over [[the galaxy]]. The '''common bantha''', or '''''bantha majorus''''', was the most commonly known species, with the other subspecies considered generally rare.
   
 
==Anatomy==
  
==Anatomy==
 
[[File:Bantha Bull and Cow.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Bantha cow (female) and bull (male)]]
  
[[File:Bantha Bull and Cow.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Bantha cow (female) and bull (male)]]
 
{{Quote|Banthas are filthy animals. I don't eat filthy animals.|[[Mace Windu]]|Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds: Clone Campaigns}}
  
{{Quote|Banthas are filthy animals. I don't eat filthy animals.|[[Mace Windu]]|Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds: Clone Campaigns}}
−
The bantha was one of the most adaptable herbivorous creatures in the galaxy and could be found on several worlds. They were able to survive in almost any extremes of environment and could go without food or water for several weeks. Although bantha subspecies had diverged from their baseline ancestors, most shared similar characteristics. They were quadrupeds that were covered with long, shaggy fur and had large curved horns. A common bantha adult (''Bantha majorus'') was between two and three meters tall and could weigh up to 4,000 kilos. Their lifespan was between 80 and 100 years and they reached sexual maturity at the age of 20. Some sentient species had been known to ride banthas, such as [[Tusken Raider]]s.
+
The bantha was one of the most adaptable herbivorous creatures in the galaxy and could be found on several worlds. They were able to survive in almost any extremes of environment and could go without food or water for several weeks.<ref name="TEGtAS" /> Although bantha subspecies had diverged from their baseline ancestors, most shared similar characteristics. They were quadrupeds that were covered with long, shaggy fur and had large curved horns. A common bantha adult (''Bantha majorus'') was between two and three meters tall and could weigh up to 4,000 kilos. Their lifespan was between 80 and 100 years and they reached sexual maturity at the age of 20. Some sentient species had been known to ride banthas, such as [[Tusken Raider]]s.<ref name="Wildlife" />
   
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Bulls tended to be larger than the cows and both [[Sexes|gender]]s grew a pair of spiral horns. Most female banthas achieved just a single spiral during their lifetimes, while a male could achieve two full spirals before its death.
 +
Bulls tended to be larger than the cows and both [[Sexes|gender]]s grew a pair of spiral horns. Most female banthas achieved just a single spiral during their lifetimes, while a male could achieve two full spirals before its death.<ref name="Wildlife" />
   
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The distinctive spiral horns of the bantha grew at the rate of a knob each year. Thickness and condition of the horns were an indication of the bantha's health and environment. Bulls fought each other by butting heads in ritual combat. The spirals on their horns could cause the pair to become entangled, which almost always meant death for both banthas, as the pair would soon collapse from exhaustion and eventually succumb to death by dehydration.
 +
The distinctive spiral horns of the bantha grew at the rate of a knob each year. Thickness and condition of the horns were an indication of the bantha's health and environment. Bulls fought each other by butting heads in ritual combat. The spirals on their horns could cause the pair to become entangled, which almost always meant death for both banthas, as the pair would soon collapse from exhaustion and eventually succumb to death by dehydration.<ref name="Wildlife" />
   
 
[[File:Bantha tongue.jpg|thumb|250px|Bantha tongue anatomy]]
  
[[File:Bantha tongue.jpg|thumb|250px|Bantha tongue anatomy]]
   
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Banthas used their dexterous, sensitive tongue, as a sort of hand used in pulling up grass and shrubs from the ground. Also located on the tongue were breathing and scent spiracles which allowed the bantha to determine if an object was edible without stooping or reaching awkwardly. Male banthas also raised their tongue as a way to signal their readiness to mate.
 +
Banthas used their dexterous, sensitive tongue, as a sort of hand used in pulling up grass and shrubs from the ground. Also located on the tongue were breathing and scent spiracles. Male banthas also raised their tongue as a way to signal their readiness to mate.<ref name="Wildlife" />
   
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Banthas traveled in herds of up to twenty-five individuals, led by the oldest, strongest female. A herd which grew too large was split, with the second oldest and strongest female taking the new herd. The gestation period was 30 months and the newborn's birth weight was about 50 kilos.
 +
Banthas traveled in herds of up to twenty-five individuals, led by the oldest, strongest female. A herd which grew too large was split, with the second oldest and strongest female taking the new herd. The gestation period was 30 months and the newborn's birth weight was about 50 kilograms.<ref name="Wildlife" />
   
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Female banthas produced [[blue milk]] from mammary glands that was consumed by [[Sentience|sentient]]s as a drink. Bantha dung was another useful byproduct of the species, as it smoldered for a significant amount of time, and was used by the Tuskens as cooking fuel.<ref name="Out4">''[[Star Wars: Republic 10: Outlander, Part 4]]''</ref>
 +
Female banthas produced [[blue milk]]<ref name="Stay" /> from mammary glands that was consumed by [[Sentience|sentient]]s as a drink.<ref name="A New Hope" /> Bantha dung was another useful byproduct of the species, as it smoldered for a significant amount of time, and was used by the Tuskens as cooking fuel.<ref name="Out4">''[[Star Wars: Republic 10: Outlander, Part 4]]''</ref>
   
 
Banthas had three-nailed hooves that were typically trimmed by their owners.<ref name="Out4" />
 
Banthas had three-nailed hooves that were typically trimmed by their owners.<ref name="Out4" />
   
−
Banthas were harvested for their [[meat]] by workers or were put in [[Animal nursery|animal nurseries]] for long-term sustained harvesting on multiple worlds.<ref name="SW:GB">''[[Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds]]''</ref>
 +
Banthas were harvested for their meat by workers or were put in [[Animal nursery|animal nurseries]] for long-term sustained harvesting on multiple worlds.<ref name="SW:GB">''[[Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds]]''</ref>
   
 
==Subspecies==
  
==Subspecies==
 
[[File:Feral bantha.jpg|thumb|left|175px|Feral bantha from [[Talasea]]]]
  
[[File:Feral bantha.jpg|thumb|left|175px|Feral bantha from [[Talasea]]]]
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The bantha was domesticated on most worlds and were used for pulling heavy loads, transportation and even as war beasts. The meat and hide of the bantha were much sought-after. While the origins of the bantha were unknown, every world on which it existed laid claim to it as being its [[homeworld]]. Most banthas bred in captivity were trained as beasts of burden, and most of those were bred for desert environments. There were at least three distinct subspecies found on the planet Tatooine: the ''common bantha'', the ''[[dwarf bantha]]'', and the ''[[dune bantha]]''. Noted for their docility, the dwarf race (also referred to as "miniature banthas") made amiable pets, as in the case of [[Ebenn Q3 Baobab]]'s companion, [[Nuke]].
+
The bantha was domesticated on most worlds and were used for pulling heavy loads, transportation and even as war beasts. The meat and hide of the bantha were much sought-after.<ref name="Databank">{{DB|creature|bantha|Bantha}}</ref> While the origins of the bantha were unknown, every world on which it existed laid claim to it as being its [[homeworld]].<ref name="AA">''[[Alien Anthology]]''</ref> There were at least three distinct subspecies found on the planet Tatooine: the ''common bantha'', the ''[[dwarf bantha]]'', and the ''[[dune bantha]]''.<ref name="Wildlife" /> Noted for their docility, the dwarf race (also referred to as "miniature banthas") made amiable pets, as in the case of [[Ebenn Q3 Baobab]]'s companion, [[Nuke]].<ref name="GP&TG">''[[Galactic Phrase Book & Travel Guide (real-life book)|Galactic Phrase Book & Travel Guide]]''</ref>
   
−
Another additional subspecies, the [[Kashyyyk bantha]], was suitably adapted for life on the [[Wookiee]] [[Kashyyyk|homeworld]] and the [[Kilian Bantha]] was adapted for living in the mountainous regions of [[Kilia IV]].
 +
Another additional subspecies, the [[Kashyyyk bantha]], was suitably adapted for life on the [[Wookiee]] [[Kashyyyk|homeworld]]<ref name="SWR 82 HE2" /> and the [[Kilian Bantha]] was adapted for living in the mountainous regions of [[Kilia IV]].<ref name="Kilian" />
   
−
Feral banthas were also found on [[Talasea]] where they developed an aggressive personality and roamed the forested world at will, attacking anything that crossed its path.
 +
Feral banthas were also found on [[Talasea]] where they developed an aggressive personality and roamed the forested world at will, attacking anything that crossed its path.<ref name="Databank" />
   
−
[[Swamp bantha]]s were brought to [[Ohma-D'un]] to help colonize the moon.
 +
[[Swamp bantha]]s were brought to [[Ohma-D'un]] to help colonize the moon.<ref name="Gungan Frontier" />
   
 
==Banthas of Tatooine==
  
==Banthas of Tatooine==
 
[[File:Bantha herd.png|thumb|250px|A herd of banthas crossing the [[Dune Sea]].]]
  
[[File:Bantha herd.png|thumb|250px|A herd of banthas crossing the [[Dune Sea]].]]
−
The bantha was an integral part of [[Tusken Raider|Tusken]] culture on Tatooine. When a Tusken Raider child reached the age of seven he or she was ceremonially presented with a bantha of the same age as a companion-for-life. The youth learned to care for the creature, and the two built a mystical bond. When the bantha reached maturity, the male Tusken Raider would [[saddle]] his companion and ride it into the desert for adult initiation ceremonies.
+
The bantha was an integral part of Tusken culture on Tatooine. When a Tusken Raider child reached the age of seven he or she was ceremonially presented with a bantha of the same age as a companion-for-life. The youth learned to care for the creature, and the two built a mystical bond. When the bantha reached maturity, the male Tusken Raider would [[saddle]] his companion and ride it into the desert for adult initiation ceremonies.<ref name="Wildlife" />
   
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When Tuskens married, the couple's banthas would also mate. Often, the resulting calf would be of the same sex as the Tusken child.
 +
When Tuskens married, the couple's banthas would also mate. Often, the resulting calf would be of the same gender as the Tusken child.<ref name="Wildlife" />
   
−
The banthas of Tatooine were known to form deep bonds with the Tusken Raiders of the planet and often committed suicide if their riders were to die first. Banthas that died naturally were placed in vast graveyards, which other banthas treated with a kind of ceremonial reverence.
 +
The banthas of Tatooine were known to form deep bonds with the Tusken Raiders of the planet and often committed suicide if their riders were to die first. Banthas that died naturally were placed in vast graveyards, which other banthas treated with a kind of ceremonial reverence.<ref name="Wildlife" />
   
 
==The bantha in culture==
  
==The bantha in culture==
 
{{Quote|Spare us the bantha droppings.|[[Wes Janson]] to [[Kapp Dendo]]|Star Wars: X-Wing Rogue Squadron: Battleground: Tatooine}}
  
{{Quote|Spare us the bantha droppings.|[[Wes Janson]] to [[Kapp Dendo]]|Star Wars: X-Wing Rogue Squadron: Battleground: Tatooine}}
 
[[File:Bantha NEGAS.jpg|right|thumb|200px|A bantha]]
  
[[File:Bantha NEGAS.jpg|right|thumb|200px|A bantha]]
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*[[Dim-U]] was a religious order based in [[Mos Eisley]] that worshiped the bantha.
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*[[Dim-U]] was a religious order based in [[Mos Eisley]] that worshiped the bantha.<ref name="AA" />
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*In one version of the [[Corellian]] sport of [[Phrenbi]], banthas were used as mounts.
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*In one version of the [[Corellian]] sport of [[Phrenbi]], banthas were used as mounts.<ref name="TBSoS">''[[The Black Sands of Socorro]]''</ref>
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*As an insult, people were referred to as "bantha fodder" ("bantha poodoo" in Huttese).
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*As an insult, people were referred to as "bantha fodder" ("bantha poodoo" in Huttese).<ref name="TPM">[[Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace|''Star Wars'': Episode I ''The Phantom Menace'']]</ref>
−
*Banthas were the focus of a children's story called "[[The Little Lost Bantha Cub]]," which was the favorite bedtime story of [[Darth Caedus|Jacen]] and [[Jaina Solo Fel|Jaina Solo]].
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*Banthas were the focus of a children's story called "[[The Little Lost Bantha Cub]]," which was the favorite bedtime story of [[Darth Caedus|Jacen]] and [[Jaina Solo Fel|Jaina Solo]].<ref name="Dark Apprentice">''[[Dark Apprentice (novel)|Dark Apprentice]]''</ref>
−
*[[Stuffed bantha]]s were popular toys among children in the galaxy. Wookiee [[Lumpawaroo]] enjoyed his when he was young.
 +
*[[Stuffed bantha]]s were popular toys among children in the galaxy. Wookiee [[Lumpawaroo]] enjoyed his when he was young.<ref name="Tempest">''[[Legacy of the Force: Tempest]]''</ref>
 
*Bantha meat was often eaten by Tatooine locals, in the form of [[bantha steak]]s, [[bantha burger]]s, [[bantha rump]], and [[jerked bantha meat]]. The [[milk]] of the female bantha was used to produce [[bantha butter]]. Even the blood of the bantha was utilized to create [[bantha-blood fizz]]. [[Bantha Breakfast Biscuit]]s were also believed to be derived from the bantha. The dining establishment [[BanthaQuik!]] served bantha in their [[Tusken Special]], one of their most popular meals.<ref name="DH">{{Journal|9|Death-Hunter}}, p.205</ref>
  
*Bantha meat was often eaten by Tatooine locals, in the form of [[bantha steak]]s, [[bantha burger]]s, [[bantha rump]], and [[jerked bantha meat]]. The [[milk]] of the female bantha was used to produce [[bantha butter]]. Even the blood of the bantha was utilized to create [[bantha-blood fizz]]. [[Bantha Breakfast Biscuit]]s were also believed to be derived from the bantha. The dining establishment [[BanthaQuik!]] served bantha in their [[Tusken Special]], one of their most popular meals.<ref name="DH">{{Journal|9|Death-Hunter}}, p.205</ref>
−
*[[Bantha hide]]s are often used in making clothes or furniture.
 +
*[[Bantha hide]]s are often used in making clothes or furniture.<ref name="LCatFoO">''[[Lando Calrissian and the Flamewind of Oseon]]''</ref>
−
*The phrase "grease the whole bantha" was used on [[Agamar]] to indicate that total commitment was necessary.
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*The phrase "grease the whole bantha" was used on [[Agamar]] to indicate that total commitment was necessary.<ref name="Betrayal">''[[Legacy of the Force: Betrayal]]''</ref>
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*The phrase "[[wild bantha chase]]" refered to banthas.
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*The phrase "wild bantha chase" referred to banthas.<ref name="ROTS">[[Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith|''Star Wars'': Episode III ''Revenge of the Sith'']]</ref>
 
*[[Chagrian]] [[Bouncer (occupation)|bouncer]] [[Burloo]] was nicknamed "Bantha".<ref name="BL">{{GamerCite|7|Bartyn's Landing (article)|Bartyn's Landing}}</ref>
  
*[[Chagrian]] [[Bouncer (occupation)|bouncer]] [[Burloo]] was nicknamed "Bantha".<ref name="BL">{{GamerCite|7|Bartyn's Landing (article)|Bartyn's Landing}}</ref>
   
 
==Behind the scenes==
  
==Behind the scenes==
 
[[File:BanthaCGI2.jpg|thumb|left|120px|CGI model for ''The Phantom Menace'']]
  
[[File:BanthaCGI2.jpg|thumb|left|120px|CGI model for ''The Phantom Menace'']]
−
The name of the bantha may have come from the Banth, a similar large mammal from [[Wikipedia:Edgar Rice Burroughs|Edgar Rice Burroughs]]'s [[Wikipedia:Barsoom|Barsoom]] novels.
  
−  
 
In the original version of ''[[Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope|A New Hope]]'', the bantha was played by a trained [[Wikipedia:elephant|elephant]] named [[Mardji]] in a fur costume. In some cases, Mardji's trunk can be barely visible beneath the bantha costume. Re-releases and the [[prequel trilogy]] featured digital banthas. Their vocalizations were also done with a slowed-down bear's roar.<ref name="Drawing from the Present">{{Blog|official=true|/2013/08/15/drawing-from-the-present-familiar-creatures-in-a-galaxy-far-far-away/|Drawing from the Present: Familiar Creatures in a Galaxy Far, Far Away|int= }}</ref>
  
In the original version of ''[[Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope|A New Hope]]'', the bantha was played by a trained [[Wikipedia:elephant|elephant]] named [[Mardji]] in a fur costume. In some cases, Mardji's trunk can be barely visible beneath the bantha costume. Re-releases and the [[prequel trilogy]] featured digital banthas. Their vocalizations were also done with a slowed-down bear's roar.<ref name="Drawing from the Present">{{Blog|official=true|/2013/08/15/drawing-from-the-present-familiar-creatures-in-a-galaxy-far-far-away/|Drawing from the Present: Familiar Creatures in a Galaxy Far, Far Away|int= }}</ref>
   
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==Audio==
  
==Audio==
−
{{Listen|filename=BanthaA-SWE1R.ogg|title=BanthaA-SWE1R.ogg|description=Example of a Bantha's cry}}
 +
{{Listen|filename=BanthaA-SWE1R.ogg|title=BanthaA-SWE1R.ogg|description=Example of a bantha's cry}}
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{{Listen|filename=BanthaB-SWE1R.ogg|title=BanthaB-SWE1R.ogg|description=Another example of a Bantha's cry}}
 +
{{Listen|filename=BanthaB-SWE1R.ogg|title=BanthaB-SWE1R.ogg|description=Another example of a bantha's cry}}
   
 
==Appearances==
  
==Appearances==
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*''[[The Old Republic: Fatal Alliance]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[The Old Republic: Fatal Alliance]]'' {{Mo}}
 
*''[[Star Wars: The Old Republic]]''
  
*''[[Star Wars: The Old Republic]]''
−
*''[[Star Wars: The Old Republic: Rise of the Hutt Cartel]]''
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*{{TOR|Rise of the Hutt Cartel}}
  +
*{{TOR|Galactic Starfighter}} {{Mo}}
  +
*{{TOR|Galactic Strongholds}}
  +
*{{TOR|Knights of the Fallen Empire}}
 
*''[[Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds]]''
  
*''[[Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds]]''
 
*''[[Knight Errant (novel)|Knight Errant]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[Knight Errant (novel)|Knight Errant]]'' {{Mo}}
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*{{Tales|15|Sandstorm (comic)|Sandstorm}} {{Mo}}
  
*{{Tales|15|Sandstorm (comic)|Sandstorm}} {{Mo}}
 
*''[[Adventure in Beggar's Canyon]]''
  
*''[[Adventure in Beggar's Canyon]]''
−
*''[[Breaking Free]]'' {{Mo}}
 +
*''[[Breaking Free: The Adventures of Dannen Lifehold]]'' {{Mo}}
 
*''[[Lando Calrissian and the Mindharp of Sharu]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[Lando Calrissian and the Mindharp of Sharu]]'' {{Mo}}
 
*''[[Lando Calrissian and the Flamewind of Oseon]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[Lando Calrissian and the Flamewind of Oseon]]'' {{Mo}}
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*''[[Black Ice (adventure book)|Black Ice]]''
  
*''[[Black Ice (adventure book)|Black Ice]]''
 
*''[[Graveyard of Alderaan]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[Graveyard of Alderaan]]'' {{Mo}}
  +
*''[[Planet of the Mists]]'' {{Mo}}
  +
*{{WEGCite|book=Star Wars Gamemaster Screen|text=''Star Wars Gamemaster Screen''|story=Hostile Natives Of Th'irus}} {{Mo}}
  +
*{{WEGCite|book=Supernova (WEG)|text=''Supernova''|story=Triple Cross}} {{Mo}}
 
*''[[Star Wars: Empire 11: The Short, Happy Life of Roons Sewell, Part 2]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[Star Wars: Empire 11: The Short, Happy Life of Roons Sewell, Part 2]]'' {{Mo}}
 
*''[[Play It Again, Figrin D'an: The Tale of Muftak and Kabe]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[Play It Again, Figrin D'an: The Tale of Muftak and Kabe]]'' {{Mo}}
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*''[[Star Wars Battlefront: Renegade Squadron]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[Star Wars Battlefront: Renegade Squadron]]'' {{Mo}}
 
*''[[Allegiance (novel)|Allegiance]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[Allegiance (novel)|Allegiance]]'' {{Mo}}
−
*''[[The Star Wars Holiday Special]]'' {{C|[[Stuffed bantha]] toy}}, {{C|[[Meat]]}}
 +
*''[[The Star Wars Holiday Special]]'' {{C|[[Stuffed bantha]] toy}}, {{C|Meat}}
 
*''[[Galaxy of Fear: Eaten Alive]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[Galaxy of Fear: Eaten Alive]]'' {{Mo}}
 
*''[[Galaxy of Fear: The Nightmare Machine]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[Galaxy of Fear: The Nightmare Machine]]'' {{Mo}}
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*{{Journal|14|Crimson Bounty}} {{Mo}}
  
*{{Journal|14|Crimson Bounty}} {{Mo}}
 
*''[[A New Beginning]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[A New Beginning]]'' {{Mo}}
  +
*{{WEGCite|book=Galaxy Guide 7: Mos Eisley|text=''Galaxy Guide 7: Mos Eisley''|story=A Bith Saved Is A Bith Learned}}
 
*''[[Payback: The Tale of Dengar]]''
  
*''[[Payback: The Tale of Dengar]]''
 
*[[Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (novel)|''Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back'' novel]] {{Mo}}
  
*[[Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (novel)|''Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back'' novel]] {{Mo}}
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*''[[Prophets of the Dark Side (book)|Prophets of the Dark Side]]''
  
*''[[Prophets of the Dark Side (book)|Prophets of the Dark Side]]''
 
*''[[Boba Fett: Twin Engines of Destruction]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[Boba Fett: Twin Engines of Destruction]]'' {{Mo}}
  +
*{{WEGCite|book=Twin Stars of Kira|text=''Twin Stars of Kira''|story=For a Few Kilotons More}} {{Mo}}
  +
*{{WEGCite|book=Twin Stars of Kira|text=''Twin Stars of Kira''|story=Operation: Pet Show}} {{Mo}}
 
*{{DarkStryder|Omens|The DarkStryder Campaign}} {{Mo}}
  
*{{DarkStryder|Omens|The DarkStryder Campaign}} {{Mo}}
 
*''[[X-Wing: Iron Fist]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[X-Wing: Iron Fist]]'' {{Mo}}
 
*''[[Corphelion Interlude]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[Corphelion Interlude]]'' {{Mo}}
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*{{WEGCite|book=The Politics of Contraband|text=''The Politics of Contraband''|story=Free Time}}
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*{{WEGCite|book=Classic Adventures|text=''Classic Adventures''|story=Free Time}} {{C|Reprint}}
 
*''[[The Last Command]]'' {{Mo}}
  
*''[[The Last Command]]'' {{Mo}}
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*''*[[Blaze of Glory (short story)|Blaze of Glory]]'' {{Mo}}
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*''[[Blaze of Glory (short story)|Blaze of Glory]]'' {{Mo}}
 
*''[[Jedi Search]]'' {{Mo}}
  
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*{{Hyperspace|url=fans/hyperspace/fiction/shadesofgray/index.html|text=''Shades of Gray''|int=Shades of Gray|newurl=http://star-wars.suvudu.com/2012/10/star-wars-shorts-shades-of-gray-from-the-adventures-of-alex-winger.html|newhost=[[Suvudu]]}} {{Mo}}
  
*{{Hyperspace|url=fans/hyperspace/fiction/shadesofgray/index.html|text=''Shades of Gray''|int=Shades of Gray|newurl=http://star-wars.suvudu.com/2012/10/star-wars-shorts-shades-of-gray-from-the-adventures-of-alex-winger.html|newhost=[[Suvudu]]}} {{Mo}}
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==Sources==
  
==Sources==
 
{{Scroll box|content=
  
{{Scroll box|content=
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[[File:Bantha procession TCG Edge of Darkness.jpg|thumb|220px|[[Tusken Raiders]] riding banthas]]
 +
[[File:Bantha procession TCG Edge of Darkness.jpg|thumb|220px|[[Tusken Raider]]s riding banthas]]
 
*[[Star Wars: The Power of the Force (1995)|''Star Wars: The Power of the Force'' (1995)]]
  
*[[Star Wars: The Power of the Force (1995)|''Star Wars: The Power of the Force'' (1995)]]
 
*''[[Star Wars: Power of the Jedi]]''
  
*''[[Star Wars: Power of the Jedi]]''
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*''[[Galaxy Guide 5: Return of the Jedi]]''
  
*''[[Galaxy Guide 5: Return of the Jedi]]''
 
*''[[Rebel Alliance Sourcebook]]''
  
*''[[Rebel Alliance Sourcebook]]''
−
*''[[Cracken's Rebel Field Guide (sourcebook)|''Cracken's Rebel Field Guide'']]
 +
*''[[Cracken's Rebel Field Guide (sourcebook)|Cracken's Rebel Field Guide]]''
−
*''[[Star Wars: The Roleplaying Game, Second Edition]]'' <!-- October 1992 -->
 +
*''[[Star Wars Miniatures Battles (first edition)|Star Wars Miniatures Battles]]''
−
*''[[Han Solo and the Corporate Sector Sourcebook]]''
 +
*''[[Planets of the Galaxy, Volume Two]]''
  +
*''[[Heir to the Empire Sourcebook]]''
  +
*[[Star Wars: The Roleplaying Game, Second Edition|''Star Wars: The Roleplaying Game'', Second Edition]] <!-- October 1992 -->
  +
*''[[Galaxy Guide 7: Mos Eisley]]''
  +
*''[[Star Wars Gamemaster Handbook]]''
  +
*''[[Galaxy Guide 9: Fragments from the Rim]]''
  +
*''[[Dark Empire Sourcebook]]''
  +
*''[[Planets of the Galaxy, Volume Three]]''
  +
*[[Star Wars Technical Journal (Volume One)|''Star Wars Technical Journal'', Volume One]]
 
*''[[The Movie Trilogy Sourcebook]]''
  
*''[[The Movie Trilogy Sourcebook]]''
  +
*''[[Han Solo and the Corporate Sector Sourcebook]]''
  +
*[[Star Wars Miniatures Battles (Second Edition)|''Star Wars Miniatures Battles'', Second Edition]]
  +
*''[[Star Wars Technical Journal]]''
  +
*''[[The Star Wars Planets Collection]]''
 
*[[Galaxy Guide 2: Yavin and Bespin (Second Edition)|''Galaxy Guide 2: Yavin and Bespin'', Second Edition]]
  
*[[Galaxy Guide 2: Yavin and Bespin (Second Edition)|''Galaxy Guide 2: Yavin and Bespin'', Second Edition]]
 
*''[[Rebel Alliance Sourcebook|Rebel Alliance Sourcebook, Second Edition]]
  
*''[[Rebel Alliance Sourcebook|Rebel Alliance Sourcebook, Second Edition]]
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*''[[Shadows of the Empire Sourcebook]]''
  
*''[[Shadows of the Empire Sourcebook]]''
 
*''[[Star Wars: The Roleplaying Game, Second Edition, Revised and Expanded]]''
  
*''[[Star Wars: The Roleplaying Game, Second Edition, Revised and Expanded]]''
−
*{{CCG|Premiere Limited|cardname=Bantha}}
 +
*{{CCG|set=Premiere Limited|cardname=Bantha}}
 
*''[[Star Wars Gamemaster Screen, Revised]]'' <!-- December 1996 -->
  
*''[[Star Wars Gamemaster Screen, Revised]]'' <!-- December 1996 -->
−
*{{CCG|Special Edition Limited|cardname=Bantha Herd}}
 +
*{{CCG|set=Special Edition Limited|cardname=Bantha Herd}}
 
*''[[X-Wing: The Official Strategy Guide]]''
  
*''[[X-Wing: The Official Strategy Guide]]''
 
*{{StarWarsKidsCite|3|Star Wars Kids Answer Quest}}
  
*{{StarWarsKidsCite|3|Star Wars Kids Answer Quest}}
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*{{WizardsCite|url=default.asp?x=starwars/article/sw20011004aliens|text=''Even More Aliens!''|int=Even More Aliens!}}
  
*{{WizardsCite|url=default.asp?x=starwars/article/sw20011004aliens|text=''Even More Aliens!''|int=Even More Aliens!}}
 
*''[[The Wildlife of Star Wars: A Field Guide]]''
  
*''[[The Wildlife of Star Wars: A Field Guide]]''
−
*''[[Star Wars Miniatures: Universe]]''
 +
*''[[Universe (Star Wars Miniatures)|Star Wars Miniatures: Universe]]''
 
*''[[The Essential Guide to Alien Species]]''
  
*''[[The Essential Guide to Alien Species]]''
 
*''[[Obi-Wan: Prima's Official Strategy Guide]]''
  
*''[[Obi-Wan: Prima's Official Strategy Guide]]''
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*''[[Hero's Guide]]''
  
*''[[Hero's Guide]]''
 
*{{WizardsCite|url=article.asp?x=sw20010517c_howler&c=rpg|text=Tatooine Howler|int=Tatooine Howler (article)}}
  
*{{WizardsCite|url=article.asp?x=sw20010517c_howler&c=rpg|text=Tatooine Howler|int=Tatooine Howler (article)}}
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*{{FFCite|3|TAT4, ''Tatooine''}}
 
*''[[Star Wars: Rogue Squadron III: Rebel Strike: The Official Nintendo Player's Guide]]''
  
*''[[Star Wars: Rogue Squadron III: Rebel Strike: The Official Nintendo Player's Guide]]''
 
*{{FFCite|113|TUS9-10, ''Tusken Raiders - Banthas''}}
  
*{{FFCite|113|TUS9-10, ''Tusken Raiders - Banthas''}}
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*''[[Star Wars: The Official Starships & Vehicles Collection 2]]''
  
*''[[Star Wars: The Official Starships & Vehicles Collection 2]]''
 
*''[[The Complete Star Wars Encyclopedia]]''
  
*''[[The Complete Star Wars Encyclopedia]]''
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*{{SWGTCG|Champions of the Force (SWGTCG)|Champions of the Force|cardname=Bantha Hunt}}
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*{{SWGTCG|set=Champions of the Force (SWGTCG)|text=Champions of the Force|cardname=Bantha Hunt}}
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*{{SWGTCG|Champions of the Force (SWGTCG)|Champions of the Force|cardname=Bantha}}
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*{{SWGTCG|set=Champions of the Force (SWGTCG)|text=Champions of the Force|cardname=Bantha}}
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*{{SWGTCG|Squadrons Over Corellia|cardname=Tusken Bantha}}
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*{{SWGTCG|set=Squadrons Over Corellia|cardname=Tusken Bantha}}
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*{{SWGTCG|Galactic Hunters|cardname=Armored Bantha Mount}}
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*{{SWGTCG|set=Galactic Hunters|cardname=Armored Bantha Mount}}
 
*''[[Secrets of Tatooine]]''
  
*''[[Secrets of Tatooine]]''
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*{{SWGTCG|The Nightsister's Revenge|cardname=Dune Bantha}}
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*{{SWGTCG|set=The Nightsister's Revenge|cardname=Dune Bantha}}
 
*{{GamerCite|7|Bartyn's Landing (article)|Bartyn's Landing}}
  
*{{GamerCite|7|Bartyn's Landing (article)|Bartyn's Landing}}
 
*''[[The Unknown Regions]]''
  
*''[[The Unknown Regions]]''
 
*''[[Star Wars: Head-to-Head Tag Teams]]''
  
*''[[Star Wars: Head-to-Head Tag Teams]]''
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*{{FFGTCG|Star Wars: The Card Game - Edge of Darkness|Bantha}}
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*{{FFGTCG|set=Edge of Darkness|cardname=Across the Jundland Wastes}}
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*{{FFGTCG|set=Edge of Darkness|cardname=Bantha}}
 
*{{DB|creature|bantha|Bantha}}
  
*{{DB|creature|bantha|Bantha}}
 
*''[[Star Wars: The Old Republic Explorer's Guide]]''
  
*''[[Star Wars: The Old Republic Explorer's Guide]]''
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[[Category:Banthas| ]]
  
[[Category:Banthas| ]]
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[[Category:Bantha subspecies| ]]
 
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[[Category:Food creatures]]
  
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[[Category:Species of undefined sentience]]

Revision as of 02:48, 16 November 2015

Click here for Wookieepedia's article on the Canon version of this subject.  This article covers the Legends version of this subject. 
This article is about the bantha species. You may be looking for other uses of the term.

Warning: This infobox has missing parameters: subspecies and unrecognized parameters: members, imageBG


"Baby banthas are quite cute…"
―Darth Vectivus[src]

Banthas were sturdy and easily domesticated mammals used as beasts of burden that were found all over the galaxy. The common bantha, or bantha majorus, was the most commonly known species, with the other subspecies considered generally rare.

Anatomy

Bantha Bull and Cow

Bantha cow (female) and bull (male)

"Banthas are filthy animals. I don't eat filthy animals."
―Mace Windu[src]

The bantha was one of the most adaptable herbivorous creatures in the galaxy and could be found on several worlds. They were able to survive in almost any extremes of environment and could go without food or water for several weeks.[8] Although bantha subspecies had diverged from their baseline ancestors, most shared similar characteristics. They were quadrupeds that were covered with long, shaggy fur and had large curved horns. A common bantha adult (Bantha majorus) was between two and three meters tall and could weigh up to 4,000 kilos. Their lifespan was between 80 and 100 years and they reached sexual maturity at the age of 20. Some sentient species had been known to ride banthas, such as Tusken Raiders.[7]

Bulls tended to be larger than the cows and both genders grew a pair of spiral horns. Most female banthas achieved just a single spiral during their lifetimes, while a male could achieve two full spirals before its death.[7]

The distinctive spiral horns of the bantha grew at the rate of a knob each year. Thickness and condition of the horns were an indication of the bantha's health and environment. Bulls fought each other by butting heads in ritual combat. The spirals on their horns could cause the pair to become entangled, which almost always meant death for both banthas, as the pair would soon collapse from exhaustion and eventually succumb to death by dehydration.[7]

Bantha tongue

Bantha tongue anatomy

Banthas used their dexterous, sensitive tongue, as a sort of hand used in pulling up grass and shrubs from the ground. Also located on the tongue were breathing and scent spiracles. Male banthas also raised their tongue as a way to signal their readiness to mate.[7]

Banthas traveled in herds of up to twenty-five individuals, led by the oldest, strongest female. A herd which grew too large was split, with the second oldest and strongest female taking the new herd. The gestation period was 30 months and the newborn's birth weight was about 50 kilograms.[7]

Female banthas produced blue milk[1] from mammary glands that was consumed by sentients as a drink.[2] Bantha dung was another useful byproduct of the species, as it smoldered for a significant amount of time, and was used by the Tuskens as cooking fuel.[13]

Banthas had three-nailed hooves that were typically trimmed by their owners.[13]

Banthas were harvested for their meat by workers or were put in animal nurseries for long-term sustained harvesting on multiple worlds.[14]

Subspecies

Feral bantha

Feral bantha from Talasea

The bantha was domesticated on most worlds and were used for pulling heavy loads, transportation and even as war beasts. The meat and hide of the bantha were much sought-after.[15] While the origins of the bantha were unknown, every world on which it existed laid claim to it as being its homeworld.[16] There were at least three distinct subspecies found on the planet Tatooine: the common bantha, the dwarf bantha, and the dune bantha.[7] Noted for their docility, the dwarf race (also referred to as "miniature banthas") made amiable pets, as in the case of Ebenn Q3 Baobab's companion, Nuke.[17]

Another additional subspecies, the Kashyyyk bantha, was suitably adapted for life on the Wookiee homeworld[3] and the Kilian Bantha was adapted for living in the mountainous regions of Kilia IV.[4]

Feral banthas were also found on Talasea where they developed an aggressive personality and roamed the forested world at will, attacking anything that crossed its path.[15]

Swamp banthas were brought to Ohma-D'un to help colonize the moon.[10]

Banthas of Tatooine

Bantha herd

A herd of banthas crossing the Dune Sea.

The bantha was an integral part of Tusken culture on Tatooine. When a Tusken Raider child reached the age of seven he or she was ceremonially presented with a bantha of the same age as a companion-for-life. The youth learned to care for the creature, and the two built a mystical bond. When the bantha reached maturity, the male Tusken Raider would saddle his companion and ride it into the desert for adult initiation ceremonies.[7]

When Tuskens married, the couple's banthas would also mate. Often, the resulting calf would be of the same gender as the Tusken child.[7]

The banthas of Tatooine were known to form deep bonds with the Tusken Raiders of the planet and often committed suicide if their riders were to die first. Banthas that died naturally were placed in vast graveyards, which other banthas treated with a kind of ceremonial reverence.[7]

The bantha in culture

"Spare us the bantha droppings."
―Wes Janson to Kapp Dendo[src]
File:Bantha NEGAS.jpg

A bantha

Behind the scenes

BanthaCGI2

CGI model for The Phantom Menace

In the original version of A New Hope, the bantha was played by a trained elephant named Mardji in a fur costume. In some cases, Mardji's trunk can be barely visible beneath the bantha costume. Re-releases and the prequel trilogy featured digital banthas. Their vocalizations were also done with a slowed-down bear's roar.[27]

In 1997, Galoob released the first-ever licensed toy bantha as part of its Action Fleet line of micro-sized toys. In 1998, Kenner made an action figure-scaled bantha. A reissue with different fur and figures came out in 2007. For The Star Wars Holiday Special, a toy bantha was created, although it was never released as a toy to the public.

Banthas appear in the video game LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy. The player cannot control the bantha directly, but by hopping onto one using any other humanoid character, the bantha can be put to their use. Banthas in the game are extremely slow, and if you hop on one in the level in which they appear, Tusken Raiders come and attack the player.

Star Wars: Battlefront and Star Wars: Battlefront II assign the rank "bantha fodder" to the person who dies the most on the battlefield.

The word "bantha" was capitalized in official publications up through at least the first edition of the Guide to the Star Wars Universe in 1984.

Audio

(audio) BanthaA-SWE1R.ogg (info · help)
Example of a bantha's cry


(audio) BanthaB-SWE1R.ogg (info · help)
Another example of a bantha's cry


Appearances

Wiki-shrinkable
Explore all of Wookieepedia's [[:Category:{{{soundcat}}}|audio files]] for this article subject.

Non-canon appearances

Sources

Bantha procession TCG Edge of Darkness

Tusken Raiders riding banthas

Notes and references

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Stay on Target
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 Star Wars: Republic 82: Hidden Enemy, Part 2
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 WizardsoftheCoast "Kilian Bantha" (original article link) on Wizards.com (content now obsolete; backup link)
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 Star Wars Character Encyclopedia
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 The Complete Star Wars Encyclopedia, Vol. I, p. 59 ("bantha")
  7. ↑ 7.00 7.01 7.02 7.03 7.04 7.05 7.06 7.07 7.08 7.09 7.10 7.11 7.12 7.13 The Wildlife of Star Wars: A Field Guide
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 The Essential Guide to Alien Species
  9. ↑ Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope script
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 Star Wars Episode I: The Gungan Frontier
  11. ↑ Junior Jedi Knights: Promises
  12. ↑ Star Wars: The Old Republic
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 Star Wars: Republic 10: Outlander, Part 4
  14. ↑ Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 Databank title Bantha in the Databank (content now obsolete; backup link)
  16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 Alien Anthology
  17. ↑ Galactic Phrase Book & Travel Guide
  18. ↑ The Black Sands of Socorro
  19. ↑ Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace
  20. ↑ Dark Apprentice
  21. ↑ Legacy of the Force: Tempest
  22. ↑ SWAJsmall "Death-Hunter" — Star Wars Adventure Journal 9, p.205
  23. ↑ Lando Calrissian and the Flamewind of Oseon
  24. ↑ Legacy of the Force: Betrayal
  25. ↑ Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith
  26. ↑ SWGamer-icon "Bartyn's Landing" — Star Wars Gamer 7
  27. ↑ StarWarsDotComBlogsLogoStacked "from the Present: Familiar Creatures in a Galaxy Far, Far Away {{{3}}}" — {{{4}}} — [[{{{5}}}|{{{5}}}'s]] StarWars.com Blog (from the Present: Familiar Creatures in a Galaxy Far, Far Away backup link (/2013/08/15/drawing-from-the-present-familiar-creatures-in-a-galaxy-far-far-away//Drawing from the Present: Familiar Creatures in a Galaxy Far, Far Away) not verified!)

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