Can-cell/Legends

Can-cells were large, winged insectoids of more than three meters in length. On the ground, they walked on six spindly legs, but in the air, used four long wings to propel themselves, while their long, segmented tails provided stability. The can-cell was an insectivorous creature, but was also known to eat small rodents.

History


The Wookiees of Kashyyyk considered the appearance of a can-cell to be a good omen, and often kept them as pets. These animals were not dangerous to their masters, but were brave in battles. The Wookiees also realized that can-cells could be used as mounts, but they were too big to ride the insects themselves. Jedi Master Tsui Choi performed reconnaissance missions during the Battle of Kashyyyk while riding a can-cell.

The Wookiees used these creatures as a source of inspiration, creating masterpieces of vehicle design, like the ornithopters which were used for defending the planet against the Separatist forces. These same catamaran-like vessels often attracted the can-cells with their buzzing sound, making landing areas a common place for finding these creatures.

They were ubiquitous, flying from the darkened forest floors to the highest treetops. This insect was not dangerous, however, and could be tamed by other species. Certain beings small enough were even able to ride them, such as Yoda on Kashyyyk.



Can-cells were also found on the planet Teth, where they built their nests on the underside of rock ledges. Anakin Skywalker rode a can-cell to escape Asajj Ventress while rescuing Rotta the Huttlet. A smaller breed of can-cell could also be seen flitting around the swamps of Rodia. They were also apparently found on Aleen, where the clone troopers under commander Wolffe saw an Aleena riding one as they descended with relief supplies.

Behind the scenes
The script to Episode III described a scene of Yoda escaping the battlefields of Kashyyyk by riding atop a can-cell, "a large alien flying insect."

In Revenge of the Sith, a smaller can-cell can be spotted in the Dagobah landing of Yoda in the deleted scene. In the first sweeping shots of Utapau, a similar animal is seen.

Can-cells showed up a few times in The Clone Wars as well, on Teth, Rodia, Aleen and Ryloth.

Appearances

 * Star Wars: The Clone Wars film / novel
 * Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
 * Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
 * Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
 * Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith