(Timeline Tuesday #93)
Bunnipedes are a unique species that combines both insect and mammalian features. These creatures are approximately the size and shape of a large rabbit from our natural timeline, covered in a thick, soft fur and featuring two large, floppy ears. Their warm coat can range in color, from stark white, deep black, light gray or dark brown.
Unlike rabbits, bunnipedes do not have the usual set of four legs that one might expect. Instead, the base of this creature is lined by thirty insect-like appendages. These limbs are hard and sharp, working in unison to create a distinct crawling movement that carries bunnipedes from place to place.
Natural rabbits are significantly faster than bunnipedes, but the loss of this evolutionary advantage has made room for another one. The bite of a bunnipede is incredibly toxic, and they will not hesitate to use this attack on any predator who’s unwise enough to give a bunnipede chase. This venom is deadly unless immediately treated, and will cause the heart of an average human to stop within thirty minutes.
Despite their frightening bite, bunnipedes are not aggressive creatures. They are herbivores, and enjoy spending their days munching down grasses and roots, which they dig up for sustenance. Bunnipedes avoid conflict as much as possible, and will only resort to their venomous attack if they believe themselves to be in mortal danger.