Species: Shoyru

Shoyru Facts

Pronounced: SHOY-roo

Discovered: 20th April 2000

Species Day: 2nd April

Native Land: Neopia Central

The Shoyru is a smooth-skinned Neopet which walks on two legs. It is easily recognised by its large wings, each tipped with a small bony point at the top, and the single fin-like crest on its head. Its tail is long and thick, and apparently used for balance when on the ground. Shoyrus tend to stand with their heads turned to one side, which gave rise to the popular misconception that they have only one eye. In actual fact, they have two, much like every other Neopet discovered to date. At around 60cm tall, Shoyrus are medium-sized pets.

Shoyrus love to fly, spending a lot of time on the wing. They seem equally adept at flying by day and by night, although it seems young Shoyrus are not necessarily born with this ability and it has to be practised. They make rewarding friends, but can show a fiery temper if mistreated.

The Shoyru was first createable by Neopian owners on the 20th day of Eating, Year Two (known outside Neopia as April 20th, 2000). It's speculated that the species name might originally have been connected to the Japanese word "ryu", meaning "dragon". Despite having existed for so much of Neopia's history, the Shoyru has changed amazingly little in appearance. Every feature of its modern-day appearance can be seen in the early designs. The large, thoughtful eyes and graceful wings of the new pet proved an instant hit, and Shoyrus have consistently topped the species popularity chart for years.

Old Shoyru

Shoyru Trivia

Donna Williams' original job description, as listed in the first incarnation of the About Us page, included "making sure that your Shoyru has two eyes".
Despite the species' popularity, no Shoyru has ever been one of the main protagonists (or antagonists, for that matter) in a plot, though many have had minor supporting roles. Maybe those eyes are still giving the comic artists difficulties? (Thanks to the sharp-eyed i_luv_cheese_x100 for pointing this out!)

A Few Famous Shoyrus

Barry is the baby Shoyru who is menaced by runaway toys in the game Attack of the Marblemen.
Sparky inventor Cog works at a clothing shop in Moltara, Cog's Togs, but tinkers with mechanical devices on the side. She played a part in the Atlas of the Ancients plot, helping stabilise the forces that were putting pressure on Neopia's underground core.
Kentari is a Shenkuuvian weapons expert. He travelled the world as weaponsmaster of the flying ship Cyodrake's Gaze, and did his best to search for its missing navigator Hoban. He now works as a seller of Battledome equipment in Shenkuu, as well as teaching younger Neopets to play Godori.
The popular band Yes Boy Ice-Cream is composed entirely of Shoyrus. Their concerts feature a light show and music with a strong beat you can clap along to. The Twisted Roses also have a Shoyru vocalist.
Altador Cup players have the chance to cheer for Shoyru player Elbin Kroe (Team Faerieland). Older players may remember Sir Pollonaire Freidl (Team Meridell).