Porg

Porgs are small, bird-like creatures that made their debut in the Star Wars universe in the film "Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi," which was released in 2017. Native to the planet Ahch-To, where Luke Skywalker exiled himself, these creatures quickly became an iconic and beloved part of the Star Wars franchise. Their distinctive features include large, expressive eyes, short wings that resemble flippers, and a rotund body covered in soft feathers. The filmmakers designed Porgs as a way to enhance the natural ecosystem of Ahch-To, adding a touch of whimsical life to the ancient and mysterious island.

In terms of behavior, Porgs are known to be curious and somewhat mischievous. They can often be seen exploring their surroundings, interacting with objects, and occasionally causing minor nuisances. Despite their somewhat intrusive nature, Porgs exhibit a gentle temperament, which makes them endearing to both the characters within the Star Wars universe and the audience. In "The Last Jedi," they share screen time with Chewbacca, leading to some humorous and memorable moments that helped solidify their popularity.

The creation of Porgs was partly inspired by the real-life puffins that inhabit Skellig Michael, the island in Ireland where the Ahch-To scenes were filmed. Due to the presence of the puffins on the island, the filmmakers decided to incorporate Porgs into the Star Wars narrative to explain the background appearances of these birds. This creative decision not only facilitated the filming process but also enriched the visual and thematic landscape of Ahch-To.

Merchandise featuring Porgs quickly became a hit, with fans eager to purchase plush toys, action figures, and other memorabilia. Their popularity underscores the Star Wars franchise's ability to introduce new characters and species that capture the imaginations of audiences worldwide. While Porgs may play a relatively minor role in the broader Star Wars saga, their impact is a testament to the attention to detail and universe-building that the series is known for.