An idea that's been floating around in my head for a while.

These totoro-like creatures are called eunings. They live in deserts and scrubby lowlands. Fully grown, they range in size from 18" to 36" and their scruffy, short fur comes in a variety of standard desert colors. Males have a "crown" of sorts which they fashion from cactus flowers, each choosing the biggest and most colorful blossom they can find to assert their dominance and attract females. They are very shy and elusive, usually only venturing from their burrows in the cool of dawn and dusk, while spending the rest of their time sleeping. Their favored food is insects, though they love a good ripe fruit if they can find one. They are not especially quick, relying instead on camouflage and cover for protection from predators. If threatened they may turn aggressive, and their teeth are -very- sharp. Vocalizations consist of a series of complicated squeaks and clicks, with males also exhibiting a deep rumbling mating call that is surprisingly loud. Mating season is in the depths of winter. They pair for life and are devoted parents. Young are born in the spring, each female bearing one to three kits each season. Kits are able to live on their own by the following winter, but often remain with the parents for an additional year before mating themselves. It is not unusual to see a family consisting of a mother, father, two fully grown offspring, and the current year's new additions. They are exceptionally intelligent and have many complicated rituals and taboos associated with mating and feeding. They are mischievous and adventure-loving despite their elusive nature.

This picture is number FORTY-SEVEN of the 100 Deviation Challenge: Creation. [link]