Bantha
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Banthas are creatures in the fictional Star Wars universe. On the planet of Tatooine, they are commonly used as pack animals by the Tusken Raiders. Banthas are characterized by their size, their thick brown hair and their spiral-shaped horns.
The Tusken Raiders, or Sand People, have a special bond with their bantha mount. If a Tusken Raider dies and its bantha does not (or vice versa), it will go into a rage, then walk off into the desert to die.
Banthas are found throughout the galaxy -- a phenomenon that has yet to be explained. This intriguing distribution has warranted the growth of a religion centered on the bantha -- the Dim-U monks worship these mysterious creatures. The Tusken Raiders also regard the Bantha as sacred.
A common insult in the Star Wars universe is when someone is referred to as "bantha poodoo", Huttese for "bantha fodder".
Clearly, Banthas are popular and much-loved creatures in the Star Wars universe because Chewbacca's son Lumpy can be seen to own a soft toy Bantha in The Star Wars Holiday Special, which he gives much affection.
Bantha meat and milk are common food items, and bantha-hide boots, jackets and other wares are quite popular.
Banthas apparently originated on Rhen Var, which was once a lush jungle paradise.
Diet
Banthas are herbivores. They have long, prehensile tongues that they use to grab food, as well as to smell.
Domestication
Easily domesticated, bantha are used as pack animals on many planets throughout the galaxy. While normally docile, feral banthas, like those found on Talasea, are quite dangerous. Their sharp horns and trampling feet can pose a danger if the beasts are startled or agitated.
Popular Culture
In 2005, an obscure parody album, "Tuskin Raider Tunes, Parody Songs from a Galaxy Far Far Away" was released featuring a parody song, "Oh Bantha" by John O'Hurley, which was sung to the tune of "Oh Christmas Tree"es:Bantha it:Bantha