The Australian Bearypus, however, is a critical fail ecologically and economically.
In nature, the 3 lb (1.5ish kg) critter has a snout with grinding plates, claw-less paws, a wide tail and is covered in a thick layer of white fur. Although capable of swimming, the fur traps too much air, so they float like balloons on the water. They require a very cool environment, and a steady supply of easily huntable and crushable prey. This makes them poorly suited for icy (prey availability), wet (floating), warm (fur) and temperate environments (coloration).
Commercially - no one wants to ask the pet shop for a bearypus.
The Polar Platybear has a bill, is amphibious, venomous too, with razor sharp claws, stands 10 feet tall and weighs about 1300 pounds.
The Australian Bearypus, however, is a critical fail ecologically and economically.
In nature, the 3 lb (1.5ish kg) critter has a snout with grinding plates, claw-less paws, a wide tail and is covered in a thick layer of white fur. Although capable of swimming, the fur traps too much air, so they float like balloons on the water. They require a very cool environment, and a steady supply of easily huntable and crushable prey. This makes them poorly suited for icy (prey availability), wet (floating), warm (fur) and temperate environments (coloration).
Commercially - no one wants to ask the pet shop for a bearypus.