#that is an excellent snoot

[alphynix]

Strange Symmetries #15: Serrated Saw-Snoots

Long flattened snouts lined with pointy tooth-like denticles have convergently evolved at least three separate times in cartilaginous fish: in modern sawsharks and sawfish, and in the extinct sawskates.

This repeated "pristification" suggests that saws are just incredibly useful and relatively "easy to evolve" structures for these types of fish, being both highly sensitive to bioelectric fields and able to physically slash and stab to kill prey.

Onchopristis numida was a sawskate known from what is now Northern and Western Africa during the mid-Cretaceous, about 95 million years ago. Up to about 3m long (~10'), it lived in both saltwater and freshwater, and was probably a bottom-dwelling ambush predator similar to modern angelsharks.

Whenever a denticle was lost from its saw, a larger one would grow to replace it, and over the life of an Onchopristis this resulted in an increasingly extreme amount of saw asymmetry.

Modern pristified fish also have rather asymmetrical saws. Sawfish are commonly born with a different number of denticles on each side, while sawsharks add extra denticles of varying sizes as they age, with the ongoing replacement of lost denticles resulting in more uneven arrangements over their course of their lives.

It's not clear if the asymmetry gives any sort of advantage to these fish – but if nothing else it probably doesn't cause them any disadvantage, so there's no evolutionary pressure to stay more symmetrical.

———

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#science illustration #strange symmetries #paleontology #paleoart #palaeoblr #onchopristis #sawskate #sclerorhynchoidei #rajiformes #batoidea #ray #chondrichthyes #cartilaginous fish #fish #art #pristification #snootfish #that is an excellent snoot #convergent evolution

[paracosmicparadox]

FFXV headcanons / expanded canons Part The Second, because again, I desire character depth like I need it to breathe and if storebought isn't available, I will make it myself with my own two hands. Find Part The First here.

Ardyn: Listens to music solely in the cabaret genre or heavy metal; you can't change my mind on this (like you're flipping through his playlist and one moment its playing Kabaret Sybarit, then it switches violently and without warning to System of a Down and just about breaks your eardrums)

His closet rivals his living room in terms of size and depth (it's concerning; people get lost in there amongst his innumerable trench coats and ruffled shirts)

No coffee, no tea, only wine. Ravus and Verstael have to listen to his drunken rambling every other night and it is ghastly

Gossips like no other

He's a hoarder. You walk into his home and there are trinkets and baubles on every surface---it's gotten quite extreme

Has breakdowns in the shower

Has journals full of half-finished poetry lying about everywhere (he references the story of Julius Caesar and Marcus Brutus a lot because of the parallels to him and Somnus, and bc at this point he doesn't really care if he digs himself deeper into that rut of grief and anger)

Can't keep a plant alive to save his life; not even a cactus

He was a theater kid once upon a time

Luna: Actually legit super athletic. You can't really see it bc her muscles don't bulge, but she can and will judo flip a man effortlessly

Has the smallest handwriting you've ever seen

She's got mad art skills; there's a work-in-progress painting or pastel piece on her desk constantly

Certified history buff. This chick can recall the most obscure bits and details of Eos's past and will infodump to you if you're willing to listen

Actually works really hard to be a good person---it doesn't come naturally to her; she's no saint and she has to make a conscious effort to be as gentle as she is on a daily basis, and that in itself makes her an excellent human being

Names each and every one of her plants

Loves bugs and takes a thrill in the fact that they kinda gross Noct out

Has the "Hydrate or Dydrate" water bottle bc she forgets and needs to remind herself to imbibe H2O

Her Pinterest account is the stuff of legends

Ravus: He's so awkward in social situations---really, he's just awkward in general, but it's most obvious when someone's trying to talk to him and he's glaring daggers straight into their soul

Before his mother died, he was the kindest child. He was the sweetheart of the family and would make flower crowns with toddler Luna and make breakfast in the mornings for his family. When he withdrew, it pained those who knew him immensely

The Super Smash Bros grandmaster (he's horrible at Mario Kart though, which frustrates him to no end)

Already has some arthritic problems in his knuckles and in his knees. He always had bad joints, but it's getting worse with the years

A pro at calligraphy and fancy lettering

His art skills are just as good if not better than Luna's. He only works in graphite and charcoal, but his drawings are the most heartwrenchingly beautiful things you've ever seen

Can regularly be found in a museum or in a library

Plays D&D on the weekends when he can with an online party (the campaign's been going on for nearly 2 years; he plays a level 8 Drow Warlock)

Aranea: Owns a motorcycle---you can't change my mind.

Mixes grenadine with everything. Champagne? She's adding grenadine. Wine? Grenadine time baby. Tequila? Gimme that sweet pomegranate syrup.

AO3 angst fics are her guilty pleasure

Probably has a pilot's license (in all honesty if it was an irl setting instead of Final Fantasy, she probably would've been in the Airforce)

Wears cologne instead of perfume because it makes her seem more roguish and she likes the scent better

She's always wanted a pet snake (one of those white pythons curious faces and boopable snoots)

Raging bisexual

Knows her way on an aerial silk like nobody's business

Major vulnerability issues (she cares so, SO deeply, but no one can EVER. KNOW. except Prompto. Prompto knows.)

Best buds with Prompto ever since the events in Niflheim at the Magitek Production Facility (they facetime each other every Wednesday)

She's a sucker for a good horror flick

#ffxv #ff15 #prompto #noctis #noctis lucis caelum #gladiolus amicitia #ignis scientia #prompto argentum #aranea highwind #ardyn lucis caelum #ravus nox fleuret #lunafreya nox fleuret #headcanon #I don't know I finished this game ages ago but I've been thinking about it lately

[imsiriuslyreading]

We concur-being sick sucks! Daft pup Skye says hi-he offers a snoot for feel better boops.

He hopes this helps!

The human half of this team recommends @eyra for cozy reads endlessly. The oldest recipe for parsnip soup was an absolute delight!

Most of my other Wolfstar rereads are a tad long for frazzled brains (Marginalia by @spindrifters comes to mind-it’s utterly spectacular and my all time favourite though). Stealing Harry by copperbadge definitely has suitably quaint opening chapters and is also a longer read.

I read a lot of ‘Wolfstar raising Harry’ fics and the Wolfstar as parents AUs series is adorable-I’d start with To make a family. Lupine is also very sweet (Sirius is a zookeeper in that one! And Teddy is obsessed with the wolves). Let’s play pretend is a bit longer, and very funny! I’m fairly sure my cheeks hurt from grinning by the end! In this vein I’m currently reading the Ordinary Delights series, which does an excellent job of being exactly what it says on the tin (Padfoot and Moony rescue Harry-there are secret Hope made pastries)

I’m English enough that I think The London Underground book of love is very cute!

Better in the Morning is a Sirius makes it back through the veil a bit later fic that makes me feel all the things, but is very soft all things considered.

And last but certainly not least I’d cross an ocean for you by @imjustherefortheshipping is my most recent reread. It’s a Sirius makes it out of Azkaban years ahead of time story. Many tears. Thankfully also hugs!

I hope at least a couple of these float your boat and help pass the time whilst stuck in bed feeling less than great. Skye sends snuggles! And Happy reading! -RebelWriter99

Oh my goodness, hello?? LOOK AT THAT SNOOT! Thank you so much Skye for the boop'n'snuggles, I feel better already?

What a beautiful treat this was to wake up to.

I've just finished reading Parsnip Soup and I haven't stopped thinking about it since. What a gorgeous story that was, one thing about Eyra, their words make their way into my brain and change it a little every time, I think.

i cannot wait to get into Marginalia, i keep sneaking over to look at spoilers of that one, my willpower is working against me so badly with that one, it looks too good. TOO good.

I adore wolfstar raising harry and the only one of these I've read so far is Let's Play Pretend and i ADORED IT so I'm thoroughly looking forward to the rest of these - thank you ever so much! <3

The london underground being turned into a love story is the best thing to ever happen to it - my days of commuting left me bitter so I'm excited for this one too 👀

Better in the morning made me SOB oh my goodness. you have fantastic taste, at this point, I'd trust you with my life I think.

I haven't heard of that last one either, so I'm promptly bookmarking that, too.

You're truly a star for all of these recs and well wishes. not to mention that incredible boopysnoot pic, i feel very very lucky.

this was lovely. truly. thank you so very much, have the absolute best day! Lana xoxo

#lanas crying again #wolfstar #look at that snoot #must boop immediately

[onenicebugperday]

BRO have you heard of this really cool type of animal? They’re called BUGS and they are AWESOME. Some have little PEETS and some of them have FUZZY BUMS and some have SNOOTS and some have WINGIES some have SIX LEGGIES while some have EIGHT LEGGIES while some have SO MANY LEGGIES. And the best part about these bugs? All of them are excellent.

Can confirm this is all scientifically correct

#blightowl

[dangerrah]

Scp 076-1

50% ler | 50% lee

As a ler

Surprisingly just as merciful as cain/073

Loves to use sheep for aid with lees! (Since he can summon them)

Absolutely has a favorite lee and its 073, when the two arent teaming up, they’re against each other

BIG on teasing.

“Aww, you’re laughing so much! Maybe i should just let the little ones get their fill of laughter and not help..”

Now, if hes the one tickling? Be warned, he runs FAST

Your best bet to try and avoid him is by hiding, he’s pretty much near sighted so you can easily get away

After wrecking someone will let the person chill with the sheepies :]

As a lee

Firstly, best spots are his back and his armpits

CANNOT STAND ROUGH TICKLES HE FOLDS IMMEDIATELY! (Its the cutest thing too, he curls up and clamps his arms down)

His laugh is soft mostly, but if he’s in a bubbly mood it’ll be a bit more cackly with some snorts here and there

Hes been wrecked more times by his sheep then he cant count smh, not even on purpose, they’re stupid and cuddly and end up accidentally tickling him!

Limbs DO flail when tickled, so be careful (hes never actually trying to hurt someone though)

Immediately sleepiness after being tickled, falls asleep in minutes (honestly hes just constantly tired lmao)

Scp 076-2

100% ler | 50% stoopid

As lers

Okay so theres roughly about 30 of them in total, and a mix of actual sheep and the ones mentioned above.

These dudes are SUPER FLUFFY, and mainly tickle with their snoots or just trying to cuddle their victims

Abel is their favorite to target since hes basically their dad (plus its an excellent way to coax for treats!)

DO NOT LET THEIR APPEARANCE FOOL YOU ITS A MANIPULATION TACTIC—

Real note though, if one approaches you, be warned. The rest will follow.

..as uh..lees-?

Cant tickle em

BUT YOU CAN DISTRACT EM!

Okay so, if you happen to be faced with them, simply just throw a piece of food away from you.

Dont have food? Say your prayers cause these little dummies know no mercy.

Extra! (For both)

Abels flower crown was gifted to him by cain!

He has a reflection ability like his brother, any ACTUAL damage tickles him and the user who tried to afflict it.

Hes a big cuddlebug who loves naps, and falls asleep in random places.

Also follows budgie logic, throw a towel over his head and hes asleep in seconds.

His sheep all have names.

Except nobody ever remembers them so they just call them “1, 2, 3, 4,” etc

The sheep have, on multiple occasions, stolen from the cafeteria.

But they’re to cute to be mad at so everyone just lets it slide :]

#scp tickle #sfw #sfw interaction only #sfw tickling community #tickle fluff #tickle art #tickle blog #tickle fic #tword blog #tword content

[ardate]

Somehow I just saw this. This is a snoot of Excellent variety

#asks #mine #IM LATE BUT I LOVE IT

[horrorxweasley]

should i go live??

who would wanna watch me live in the flesh lmaooo be cool to talk to yous

Taglist: @sunrisefairy @rosietoesy @comfortwriting @wzrd-wheezes @famdomhideout @dracofknmalfoy @pandaxnienke @writing-wh0re @onlyfreds  @fairielovegood @gaycatlord-stuff @0x0spunky-monkey0x0 @i-love-scott-mccall @simpforremuslupin @lovely-slytherin @urgingforyou @angel4you @impossibelle @blondeisboss003 @high-ashell-hargrove @onyourgoddamnleft @aesxfw @toxicmodernity @klausdatprettyboi @scared-pottah @weasleyhargreeves11 @georgeweasleysbabe @skarlettmikaelson @elishi03 @dilf-lover21 @blossombreakdown @hufflepuff5972 @kentroyco @ygsangel @kimberlyyy @cassowary-canarycream @no-beans @thequibbler1347 @leftcroc @thebitchwhosalone @crow-pac @cedricisnotdead @excellently-idiotic @bamboozledflamplant @wwweaselystan @stilinskisstuff @hope @shinydragoness @iloveweasleyx @remuslupincumslutt @slytherclaw1978 @zoeygraygubler @its-a-metaphor-barnes @stargazersyd​ @sugasthreedollarkookie @fancy-pantaloons @thesimpofpeople @jupitervenusearthmars @fredweasleyhasadhd @uh-isabella​ @nyks-bella-blog @justyouraverage-simp @anti-zippy-snoot @xdezaraex @d22malfoys @georgewashingtonsnudes @georgeandiareinparis111

#rachel talks #george weasley #fred weasley #fred and george #rachels asks #george weasley x reader #fred weasley fluff #fred weasley smut #weasley twins #harry potter

[panie-wanie-dean-bean]

Oh noes i hav 2 separate cult au thoughts if i may throw my pennies into the hat, panie 🥺

The first thought is wondering how hungry for power/favoritism cult au Jack would be. I mean with his history as the golden boy of the circus, and manipulating Rory for his own gains since they were young (to give him a new loving home ofc), whats to stop him from doing his best to climb the ranks of the cult harem?

It can't be too hard, just being his kind attentive self, doing what he's told, being an excellent leader (and giving the best dick out of all 9 of them), of course their great leader calls upon him more often than not. Sure it starts with nightly trysts, and asking his opinion on new programs to implement, but...being a leader is so stressful afterall. The MC went their whole lives thinking they were human, and now have all of these duties and expectations.

He wouldn't mind if they vented to him sometimes, asked for his thoughts on their decisions when they doubt themselves, having a shoulder to cry on when they're at their lowest and are feeling vulnerable. He's privy to all their secret desires and insecurities, they've told them as much whether they're leaning on his shoulder, or he's thrusting between their legs as they cling to him. groaning and mumbling how much he's "their favorite" and "if he'd ever want to run away just the two of them, they'd go with him ina heartbeat" through panting breath, running their hands through his hair.

During their pillow talk, maybe the boys pop up in conversation on occasion, Joseph looks so lonely, and he takes such good care of Rory... would it be so hard to ask him if he would spend some time with him? He practically idolizes Jack, and the MC would love it if he tried to be a really good friend to him on occasion, like he is for them~ and they'd be more than happy to reward him for doing such a good job

Maybe they ask him for more favors, just how far is he willing to go to please them?

and what would he do if he ever finds out that MC has done the same with the other boys in a different capacity? (Ik the wise choice of action would be to ask that maybe MC went through the same song and dance with the other boys, told Ian, Nick, Shaun, or Jean that they loved them the most and would run away with them ina heartbeat if they ever got the chance, and how angry/hot that'd probably make Jack)

but in all honesty Im way off topic and just thinkin ofa normal MC havin a bad day, and cuddling with Bo, and kissin his lil snoot and tell him that they're gonna pack him with a bunch of candy and money in a suitcase and run away from their adult Job, and they'd live near a beach lika hermit with their puppy.. before just getting up and going to work the next day, cult au or not.

I mean he's a boyfriend but a pet dog actually, but a boyfriend, and every family dog has to hear either the running away speech, or our rants about a tv show and how we'd write it better while they chew on something on the couch, not caring.

Hey, what? What the fuck, you just waltz in here, say the sexiest most correct shit ever and then just leave? How dare, I wish to kiss you on the mouth. The only thing I disagree with is how often Jack and y/n can be together. Jack's teaching full time and has to practice acts and lines with his friends for their show once summer break hits. He's not absent per say but spending a lot of time with him is rough, for me at least, if you're cool with kids then y'all can hang a lot more often. He does make time for you obvi but he's a busy body and doesn't feel comfortable taking a real break, a habit you might just have to shake him out of

#whispers of an angry god #cult town au #sdj Jack #sdj Bo

[alphynix]

Strange Symmetries #06: Trilobite Tridents

The genus Walliserops was one of the weirdest-looking trilobites, covered in numerous pointy spines and sporting a large three-pronged "trident" on the front of its face.

They also had some degree of asymmetry in their bodies. Their tridents often didn't fork evenly, and their long forehead spines curved off to one side – possibly so they could lift their heads up without stabbing themselves in the back.

Walliserops hammii lived in what is now Morocco during the early-to-mid Devonian, about 403-392 million years ago. Around 5cm long (~2") It was one of the "short trident" species of Walliserops, and its chunky forehead spine curved particularly strongly to the right.

The function of these trilobites' elaborate tridents is still poorly understood. But an unusual individual of the long-tridented species Walliserops trifurcatus has been found with a lopsided four-pronged trident, and since it was able to grow to full maturity the shape of the structure probably wasn't absolutely vital for survival, suggesting it wasn't used for feeding or sensory purposes.

The tridents may instead have been used for combat with each other similar to the horns of some modern beetles. However, these sorts of features are usually only seen in males, and there's currently no definite evidence for any significant sexual dimorphism in trilobites.

(Although perhaps like ceratopsid dinosaurs their ornaments were just present in both males and females, being also useful for species recognition, visual display, and defense against predators.)

———

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#science illustration #strange symmetries #paleoart #paleontology #palaeoblr #walliserops #phacopida #trilobite #artiopoda #arthropod #invertebrate #art #that is an excellent snoot #go home evolution you're drunk #trilobites that trilo-fight

[pippindot]

Pip hides her snoot, and also plays Princess and the Pea while perching judgementally above her doctor's attempt at creating a litter spot for her. And...

EXCELLENT NEWS:

Pip's white count is already climbing!!! Days ahead of schedule!!! She is SO FAST. Prodigy.

This suggests that her new cells are already engrafting and getting to work. She may even be able to come out of isolation several days early.

#two days ago she had 0 neutrophils #yesterday she had 20 #today she had OVER 600 #which also means her risk of contracting an infection is much lower now! #pip #3 years #going to war #slaying the dragon!

[pbandjesse]

Today was mostly a good day. But I still struggled and I still really just wanted to be home.

I slept weird. I had some very very intense dreams about the end of the world. I woke up kind of in distress. Like it was fine. But I was just feeling kind of weird. I just hugged James for a little and tried to be okay.

My original planned outfit did not work out but I liked the outfit I ended up with better anyway. I actually felt really cute. That helped a lot with my mood.

I left here a little late but it was fine. My phone still wouldn't stay connected to the car and that made me really frustrated. James thinks we need a new cord. I hope that's the issue because it is really annoying.

When I got to camp I stopped at low ropes to set everything up. And I was not having fun. My hands were so cold. I struggled to get the ropes in place. I struggled to move the ladder. But I took my time and I got everything together and went to the office.

I was not interested in my breakfast. Manny would come in right after me and we ended up just sitting and talking. And then Nick came in to and it was his birthday today! And he told us all about the trip he took to London last week. And we all talkrd about travel and stuff and it was fun.

Soon everyone else was coming in and this was Manny's first feild trip so I tried to fill him in on how we ran then. Picking the groups up at the lodge and the schedule and such. And after filling Alexi in on the day (Elizabeth was stuck in traffic) we would walk over to the lodge.

Sarah already had the space set up. So we were just chilling and waiting for the bus. But then Nick, who was waiting down by the bears, called up on the walkie that the bus is refusing to drive up the hill??? So weird.

We Elizabeth and Manny went back to the office to walk the group over. And I waited there with Sarah. And then all of a sudden a second bus pulled up to the lodge. What. Alright. I directed them inside and it was all good.

And for the majority of the day today was excellent. Just stellar kids and it was so fun. This was not all of today though.

I walked the group to the low ropes course and I went through the safety rules and they did a really good job. We had laughs and some tumbles but no one got seriously hurt. And the group was so good and we were able to be chill enough that we could go see the horses.

And the horses were cooperating and 5 of them came over for pets. Sarah would bring her group over too which was perfect because we were swapping groups for the second program.

We would have to keep asking the kids to stop shrieking at the horses but besides that they were being good and gentle. Stormy knocked me in the head with his snoot. Which was very funny and Bo let me give him a hug. Love going to see the horses.

Second group did excellent. We had some students that needed support but everyone was being really nice and taking turns and I was just having a great time.

Lunch was fine. I would walk the group half way and stopped at the office to have my food. And it was a nice little break but I was all of a sudden really really tired.

This was not helped my the afternoon groups. Who were really really tough. The group directly after lunch wasn't to bad but I had to speak really strongly to a girl who was arguing with someone over the lines and I was not happy because it wss unsafe. And she was not happy being spoken to about it but she got over it by the end. And everyone was able to get through all the elements.

The main issue was my last group. They were horrible to me, to each other, to the space. The langue was horrible. Like I don't even really care about some curing but they were saying some just really cruel or sexual things. But it was all slang so I don't think the teachers knew and if I acknowledge it they act like I'm disgusting for knowing. And this group was being crazy physical. I had to legit break up 3 different fights! And the teacher did nothing. I was trying to get the teacher to engage or help and she was just like. What do you want me to do? It's a big group? And I just had to tell her hey the group is really struggling to share and she was like yeah. What? I finally had to just say none of the other groups, who were the exact same size, didn't struggle like this and it's really concerning.

But she was not helping. So I gave up. And I called the program 20 minutes early.

I walked them all around camp to waste the time before it was time for them to go.

We walked to frog hallow and around the fort, down through woodlands, and over to the pioneer village. The one little girl stood next to me and we chatted. She was the calmest in the group. I was not thrilled to hear some of the boys talk down the few who said they really enjoyed the day by continuously saying how stupid this trip was and how boring and not worth it. And I just wanted to turn around and tell them how they would have had such a better day so they weren't horrible to each other. They ruined their own day.

I dropped them off at the lodge and went back to the office. And I had to tell Elizabeth and Heather how terrible that one group was. And apparently I was not alone. Everyone else echoed how bad that one group was and how the teacher just did not engage. Elizabeth let us know they wanted to do half size groups which would have been great but we don't have 8 staff members right now. Honestly I think we should cap our trips at 60 but the chances of that is really low.

It was after 3 by the time I had caught my breath. Sarah and Manny already took low ropes down and I really appreciated that. I would print some stuff for tomorrow and check in about some things before I went over to help at the lodge.

I would clean the bathrooms and hang out for a few minutes. But I would go back to the office when I wasn't able to be helpful anymore.

When I got back over there I would talk to Alexi about things to collect and print for the consultant meeting tomorrow. And Nick would give me one of his birthday cupcakes. And things were good. And it was time for me to go.

I decided to go to Wegmans to look for body wash and get pizza for dinner. I looked at other food but nothing seemed good. And they did not have the body wash I wanted. Ah well. I got my pizza and ate it while stuck in traffic on the drive home.

When I got back here I wanted to sit down. I didn't want to do anything. But I would collect all my materials for my workshop. And I would collect some of our travel stuff in our suitcases. And would make a drawing for James about changing the layout of their furniture in their office to make it a better use of the space. We will see how that goes.

After that I would feed all the animals. And get on the couch to read and hang out for the next couple hours. And that's where I am now. Waiting for James to get home.

I am going to wash my hair tonight and hopefully sleep easier. And tomorrow should be a chill morning, then a meeting all afternoon, and then in the evening I have my printmaking workshop! Amazing. I'm really excited about that.

I hope you all have a great night. Sleep well. And take care of yourself. I love you all. Goodnight

[cypric-rat-hyperfixation]

hi!! i was wondering if you knew of any rat art blogs and any tips for drawing rats? thanks!

oo okay 

I'm not sure of any blogs specifically for rat art off the top of my head ?

My #ref tag has a bit of stuff, but not tons. You'll also wanna see #motion of slowness and #videos for study

I recommend tips for drawing any animal 

start with the major components to the animal's body. Give its body and head more attention than its fingers/paws and eyes for now

watch lots of footage of it

watch slowmo videos

Get familiar with its movement and common behaviors

view its skeletal/muscular structures if you can

print out photos and draw big, simple shapes over them to break down the major parts

note the shapes' proportions relative to one another

think of each body part as an object instead of a body part

>>> E.g. if you're drawing an eye, don't be like "damm I have to draw this rat's eye". Be like "okay blueberry time, gotta draw this blueberry" 

>>> E.g. drawing a rat's body? Nah babe, that’s a few bigass grapes. Draw those grapes  

trace outlines over printed photos

graduate to freehanding with refs in front of you

start freehanding by memory, using your simple shapes and understanding of the anatomy + proportions to help you

hone in on finer details using the same tactics above: the shape of the ears, placement of eyes on head, slope of the snoot, angles of the legs, so on

bonus: print out photos of skeletal/muscular builds and try drawing in the animal on top

remember to try not to think of each part as that part.

E.g. you're not drawing a rat's ear, you're drawing a teardrop. Drawing a rat tongue? Corner of a Laffy Taffy

make sure you graduate from doing just side views and front views to more dynamic perspectives

Here's stuff specific to rats 

Comprehensive, excellent, but french rat tutorial

Simple pet rat tutorial

Rat body language

Anatomy tips

VERY basic tutorial

How 2 Draw Animals: rat

Bean rats

Dragoart's rat tutorial

Lil toony guys

Head shape studies

More head shape studies

Body shape studies

Rat Tutorial by NezuPanda

Assorted refs

Ultimate rat tutorial

Distinguishing rat heads

How to draw common rodents

Rat shapes

Rat tutorial with a ref photo

A few blogs with great rat art 

@corvuskatana

@sivsii

@dromaeocore

@cecelovesrats

@vashkareeth

@owlet

@ratsarecute4

@shrimpu-art

@grrreenrat

@saduniblin

@refurdraws

@shivers-sketches

@nopalrabbit

@groundpear

@rattinos

@ratsnrats

@flxwer-prince

@bedupolker

@fated-normal-767

@healingwhiskers

@bobthedragon

TONS more!

And here's some general resources: 

Free software

More software, some free

Before each time you draw

Creating OCs

Coloring with lighting

Quick simplistic coloring

Spectacular ref tool

Custom 3D model of your specific character

Backgrounds via Minecraft

3D avatar model (humans)

Tracing

Traditional vs digital color theory

Paint Tool SAI brushes

Photoshop tips

Queer labels generator

Lineart & weight

Animation Masterpost

Stylization

Drawing heads

Foreshortening

Foreshortening 2

Assessing how to improve

BIGASS masterpost

Easily the MOST important tip

And general art help blogs! 

@drawing-references-tutorials

@drawing-suggestions

@drawingden

@artistencyclopedia

@amalas-tutorial-and-inspiration

@etheringtonbrothers

#dammit i keep forgetting to make and use an ask tag #rats #fancy rat #ratblr #art #ref

[marias-wonderland]

as far as artstyle goes do you perfer 2001 or the 2006 ova? plus 01 and 06 feel so different from each other that my headcanon is they take place in alternate universes?

Oooooohhhhh, Nice question!! I have not watched the 2001 anime but from the little I've seen it looks like a product of its time (early 2000's animes were all looking kinda "edgy" sometimes). I can mostly compare Alucard's appearance in both animes.

let me start with the pros of 2001 alucard (because everything else for me is a "no" from the 2001 anime):

Ominous looking, just like a vampire like him should look like

more "aged", with more defined facial characteristics

big snoot snoot

He has a nice dangerous essence, but not this totally "erratic" behaviour from ultimate. He looks like a cunning anti hero who hides a few secrets in his sleeves.

Just his mature appearance pleases me. They truly nailed that "500 y.o vampire apparition who kills people for fun while I cry myself to sleep" type of thing

pros of Ova alucard:

He is "yassified" (yeah I said it!)

He looks cuter, but also sadder and more mentally unstable

Softer, with a cleaner face, and more defined eyes (plus his eye colour sticks out much better)

his hair in the ova seems to have a soul on its own

his lips are more defined as well, looking all plumped and kissable

his skintone seems more vampire like

also bonus points for the ovas:

(Just take me to your castle already!!)

In general though?

While the 2001 anime aimed for that more "mature and serious" style of animation, where everything is dark and shadowy for some reason and its characters were not as flashy/flamboyant as in the ova, I think they could have done better (perhaps the problem was a budget issue?)

Ova on the other hand is much "cleaner" in terms of animation, more fluid, easier for the eyes to watch, more impressive, and in general more modern. The animators were very good, they translated Hirano's manga style very well into the animation.

My only complaint is that sometimes it felt very "flat". Don't get me wrong, the animation was excellent but it sometimes felt as if it had no "soul" or a personalized theme (Something that I would look at and say "this hellsing animation has a soul")

The 2001 anime had a lot of issues from what I've heard, but at least it had a distinguisable anime style which matched with the anime's theme and plot.

Overall though? Ova all the way.

As for your question, it sometimes feel that way! especially if you think that the 2001 anime does not follow the canon plot of the manga after a certain point. So yeah, it is somewhat of an AU.

#my asks #thanks for asking! #hellsing ultimate #alucard hellsing #alucard #hellsing

[cyb0rgsunset]

Just in time for the spooky season!!! A fantastic piece by @kingstooth of my gal Arizona in a dark forest, bloodied and shifting, hunting alone, or perhaps, being hunted 👀

I absolutely LOVE all the details in this, the stripes, the new tat, the tiger snoot, the red claw nails is*mwah* so choice, the blood stains are excellent! An excellent and v v spooky piece 🐅🩸💚

#Arizona Tiger-Eye #Orc #Rockabilly #Horror #Blood #cw: blood

[mikeys-jellycat-selection]

Jellycat Review: Onyx Dragon (huge) 🎀

When I first saw this guy at work, I immediately put him on hold. I just knew I had to have him, as he'd make a perfect companion for my precious huge Snow Dragon... FINALLY he has found his rightful place on my bed, which means it's time to review him!! I simply adore Jellycat dragons, so I truly can't express how stoked I am to see this handsome fellow amongst my collection.

Fur texture: 9/10

Onyx dragon's fur is just incredible. It's sleek, soft, and sooo addicting. The deep, sable fur is slightly reflective, giving it a gorgeous, sparkly lustre that it's cousins (snow, sage, etc.) lack. The only reason I'm not giving him a perfect 10/10 (the softness really is incredible, I can't understate it's appeal) is because of the unfortunate texture of his wings and scales. In perfect contrast to it's silky coat, Onyx dragon's scales are suprizingly scratchy and rough. It really does put a damper on the cuddle experience, but I can't be too upset about it. If only they'd chosen to go the route of Dexter Dragon... sigh.

Design: 9/10

I love this plushie. His adorable, silly snout... His precious paws... His long, handsome tail... I often have problems with dragon plushies, because I find that they're often really overdesigned or far too cutesy. The jellycat dragons just have an undeniable appeal to them, as they capture the recognizable likeness of a majestic dragon without making them too, for lack of a better word, ugly. One of my favorite features are the beans included in Onyx's tummy, which give it a great weight and sound. It's so fun to squish and grab this dragon's soft tum... the only gripe I have is, again, the texture of the wings... yes, the sparkly material is a great visual addition to the overall design, but it comes at the cost of alienating some people (like me) with sensory problems.

Size: 10/10

I personally think the jellycat dragons are best experienced in their "huge" size. They fit perfectly in your lap, are ever so slightly weighted, and are amazing cuddle buddies. I actually own a little Onyx dragon, and I have to say, I much prefer the larger version. It really let's the design itself shine, and makes for such a great companion. This would be the perfect plushie to consider modifying with the addition of weighted beads.

Accessibility:

These things sell for an INSANE amount of money online, which I find SO deplorable. I've seen listings from anywhere from $200 to unbelievably greedy amounts like $700~ usd. It's absurd. These dragons are immensely popular, which definitely contributes to their ridiculous second hand prices, but also ensures that they're likely not going anywhere on the site. If you have to get them online, DO NOT buy them for anywhere near those unreasonable amounts. Wait for drops on the site, or get them second hand for fair prices. Please don't contribute to people who think that they can get away with selling relatively common plushies for insane prices.

Overall 🎀

This dragon makes such an excellent companion that it would be unfair to rate him anything below a 9.5/10. Onyx dragon is simply awesome, from the tip of his adorable snoot to the pointy end of his tail. I would go so far as to say that any jellycat collection isn't complete without him or one of his precious cousins. You CAN'T pass this guy up. Onyx dragon really is the stuff of legends 🎀💖

#mikereviews #jellycat #plushblr #plushies #onyx dragon #jellycat dragon

[woodsfae]

Babylon 5 S01E05: The Parliament of Dreams

First

Previous

ToC

Honestly, I’m surprised I’m this far into season 1 already...usually I’m much worse at binging shows. However! Usually I’m not trying out new shows while recovering from surgery with very little company, and I’m having fun, so, carrying on.

“You don’t understand, this is my ceremonial blade! [...]” “I don’t care if you’re the Easter Bunny, you’re not bringing this on the station.”

This made me laugh out loud. Dealing with tourists, amirite?

G’Kar, full of surprises. Singing about fishies and love while cooking?! He contains multitudes, truly.  He’s so upset to see Diplomatic Courier Tu’Pari and I for one hope that he is plagued by a nonstop stream of Diplomatic Narns who upset him greatly with their promptness, efficiency, and distaste for idiots in general and G’Kar in specific, the second he opens his mouth and proves himself to be a dick.

He was going to bite his dinner’s snoot off. What in the heck, G’Kar. You are so weird.

Snarky old associate, and postmortem death threats. Excellent. I deeply appreciate the melodrama of this assassination attempt. And a new aide who appears to one of my wished-for plague of Narn women to ramp up his paranoia! Also excellent.

Is Catherine one of Jeff’s exes?

More Centauri women with ponytails. I..still have no comment. Wow, the Centauri religious celebration of life doubles as a celebration of a successful genocide! Tasteful.

Ivanova is in a very jovial mood, which I assume means the Centauri alcohol is fabulous, abundant, and delicious.

Catherine is definitely an ex. The awkwardness is palpable. I feel awkward just looking at them. He’s really into women whose names start with C. Hope his next girlfriend is called Carrie or Chloe, keep the theme going. Or Catherine, since he’s on the rebound from Carolyn.

“This is how we get into trouble every three years...I’d give you my berth number, but I suspect you already know how to find me...commander.”

get it, Catherine.

G’Kar’s new aide is fantastic. Healthy self esteem, has no time for his shit, knows all the assassination rituals. It would be pretty amusing if she was the assassin after all - there’s the black assassination flower she mentioned!

Delenn doesn’t know that Sinclair knows she’s Satai Delenn of the Grey Council. Intrigues! I still don’t know if the Minbari wear headdresses or have funny skulls. edit: I’ve decided they must be funky skull appendages.

Oh! The Insectoid species are back! I quite like them. Very cool eyes.

Oo, tension between Jeff and his ex. It looks like they’re at Fresh Air, the same restaurant he took Talia to. Don’t reuse your date locations too often. It gets awkward with the waiters.

“I think about you in the summer.”

“I think about you in the fall.”

“We never could agree about anything.”

Cute. I ship it.

“It was always two parts passion and three parts teeth with us,”

what??

G’Kar is definitely feeling tortured. His old associate made a great plan. But where did the lace undies come from?

Catherine is rich now! And the assassination-crystal was sent by G’Kar’s new aid’s dad! the plot thickens.

“Don’t touch me unless you mean it.”

I’ve had break-ups like that. This longing is palpable.

Ahhh it was the courier all along! Nice bondage rig. And as always, I’m a huge fan of the lightning special effect.

Na’Koth recommends a physical beating to prolong G’Kar’s pain as much as possible, but only to kick the bondage pain gear off. I hope they’re very happy together.

Oo, Jeff and Catherine are going to date! Except...Jeff just maybe married Delenn during the cultural exchange.

Here in the 21st century, we don’t have a dominant earth belief system. And it appears that in the 23rd, it’s equally as diverse. That is a long long line of religious figures and really, probably the best way to go about it.

Next!

#babylon 5 #g'kar #na'koth #woodsfae b5