Traits

By default, Xeros have small, rounded claws. Their claws are shiny and just slightly translucent. They cannot have no claws, or claws of a different shape or size than this without a special mutation.

By default, Xeros have long tails. Their tails can be a variety of shapes and sizes, such as a thick kangaroo-like tail, thin cat-like tails, fluffy fox-like tails, and more. So long as the tail appearance does not cross over with any of the other Tail Mutation requirements, Standard Tails can be nearly any other shape or size. 

By default, all Xeros have ears that are located on the sides of their heads. These ears can be a variety of shapes and sizes, but are always folded in and narrowed at the base. Ears can be round, pointed, oval-shaped, and more. They can be many sizes, from small, rounded bear-like ears, to larger, pointed fox-like ears, to long rabbit-like ears. As long as it does not cross over with any other Ear Mutation requirements, Standard Ears can be nearly any other shape or size. 

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Tufted Ears are a common mutation observed on Xeros. These ears can be any shape or size, but feature tufts of longer fur at the tips, like a lynx.

Marine Xeros can have extra small ears, or no visible ear flaps at all. This adaptation helps them be more streamlined underwater.

Floppy Ears are a common mutation observed on Xeros. These ears can be perky like the above example, fully flopped like a labrador's ears, or even longer flopped ears like a lop rabbit's. 

Desert Xeros can have larger than average ears to radiate heat, this trait is known as Desert Ears. They can be any shape (pointy fennec-like, rounded jackrabbit-like, etc.) Size can vary a bit, but is generally about twice the height of the head.

Tundra Xeros can have extremely fluffy ears called Tundra Ears; the fluff is so long that the tufts of fur inside cover most or all of the visible skin and hangs outside the ears!

 Desert Xeros can have thick, fat tails like a gecko to store fat and water, this trait is known as a Desert Tail. Size and shape can vary, but think of a thick leopard gecko-like tail, or a big squishy tail reminiscent of a caterpillar or grub.

Tufted Tails are a common mutation observed on Xeros. These tails can be any size or shape, but feature a tuft of longer fur at the tip, like a lion.

Curly Tails are a common mutation observed on Xeros. These tails can be a variety of different sizes and shapes, but always curl upwards in a single loop. 

Bobtails are a somewhat unusual mutation to see on a Xero. These tails are naturally short, and can be various shapes such as super short nubs, or fluffier bunny or deer-like tails.

Xeros can have all sorts of tail shapes, but prehensile tails are quite rare. This type of tail acts as a fifth limb, allowing the Xero to hold on to other objects or aid in climbing. When not in use, they hold their tails coiled tightly in a spiral.

How did that happen?!

Some Xeros may have retractable claws; however this is a not a common adaptation. These claws are slightly more pointy than the standard Xero claws, but are otherwise exactly the same when not retracted inside. When not in use, they just show up as simple slits on the paws, sometimes hidden by the fur.

Some Xeros may have thin, slit pupils instead of the standard round or oval ones. This is an uncommon adaptation, but the Xeros that have this style of eye tend to have even stronger night vision. 

Marine Xeros can have fins of any sort on various parts of their bodies. Fins can include whale-like dorsal fins and flukes, shark or fish-like tails, or any other sort of webbed fin. Fins can be located on their backs, tails, backs of their limbs, or even in place of their ears.

Antennae are the most common trait displayed by Xeros. These sensitive feelers enhance a Xero's senses and help them navigate in difficult environments. The antennae can be many different shapes and lengths, and can be present on the head, back, tail, and other places, such as on the cheeks like 'whiskers', or on the back of the limbs. Antennae are soft and flexible.

Bioluminescence is a very rare trait sometimes observed on Xeros. Chemical reactions within the cells of these Xero's skin produce a vibrant glow that they can control at will; however, the original function of this adaptation is currently unknown. Xeros that are bioluminescent feature some or all of their soft tissues that are a fully saturated, glowing neon color.