Lupe

Lupe Facts

Pronounced: loop

Discovered: January 13th 2000

Species Day: 2nd May

Native Land: Unknown

The Lupe is a furry Neopet and a quadruped, meaning it walks on four legs. Its face is somewhat like that of the Gelert, but there are many differences between the species, and neither pet likes being mistaken for the other. The Lupe's most defining features are its pointed ears and its fluffy muzzle, chest and tail. At about 60cm, it is a medium-sized Neopet.

Recent evidence states that Lupes, as with all Neopet species, are incapable of growing natural hair at least on top of their heads (if not more) and use wigs instead modelled after Faeries. However, many examples appear to cast this in doubt.

Lupes can be found all over Neopia; while many live in urban areas like Neopia Central, they also have no trouble coping with a wilder, less comfortable life. They traditionally move around in groups (a group of Lupes is known as a "pack"), and even outside their species, tend to make strong networks of friends. Their loyalty is famous throughout Neopian history and legend. Lupes have no trouble seeing in the dark and like being out at night; a love of moonlight, in particular, seems to be in their blood, and it's not uncommon to see a Lupe gazing longingly at the full moon in the sky. The Haunted Woods are home to a strange variant, the Werelupe, which gains huge amounts of physical strength from the light of a full moon, and also walks on its hind legs at this time. Werelupes are much less reasonable and intelligent than ordinary Lupes, and have been known to attack unsuspecting travellers without warning. While all Lupes are swift runners and physically strong, they can also become very lazy and spoilt if not kept to a regular exercise regimen.

The ancestors of Neopia's Lupes seem to have lived a much harsher life than today's fortunate pets, sometimes having to kill and eat other Neopets in order to survive. At some point, Lupes developed a taste for the Chia, which does rather resemble a vegetable. Eating one's fellow Neopians is frowned upon in modern society, but many Lupes still like chasing Chias, play-fighting with Chia toys and snacking on Chia-shaped treats. Of course, outside the borders of civilised Neopia, all bets are off, and Chias are advised not to travel alone.

The Lupe was first available to own on the 13th day of Sleeping, Year Two (known outside Neopia as January 13th, 2000). Its name is probably related to the word "lupine", meaning "wolflike". It has remained a popular pet ever since its introduction, despite the rather odd artwork of its first incarnation, in which the poor pet is not only purple-whiskered but cross-eyed. Later redraws emphasised the proud bearing of the Lupe, as well as adding its characteristic fluffy chest.

Old Lupe

A Few Famous Lupes

Balthazar is a Haunted Woods bounty hunter. He bears a grudge against Faeries, having been attacked by them when he was only a cub. Don't feel too sorry for him, though, as when he gets hungry he has a nasty tendency to snack on innocent little Petpets.
The Ghost Lupe is a spectre that haunts Mystery Island. Whether he acts threateningly towards pets or helps them seems to depend on his mood; he's known to heal pets in Random Events, but he can also terrify the life out of Chias.
Jeran Borodere is Meridell's most famous knight. His valour and heroism in the country's two great wars have earned him fans not only in Meridell, but throughout the world. It seems he is watched over by no less of a guardian than Psellia the Air Faerie herself.
King Altador is the founder of the city of the same name. Sometimes known as the Hunter, he is a just and courageous ruler who does not shy from battle where necessary. It seems he takes a keen interest in world affairs.
Tomos is a Sakhmetian street child, and the best friend of Nabile. He explored the tunnels and caverns of the city with her during the Lost Desert plot. It's unknown if his friend's new connection to royalty will help him find a better life.