Balinaka

"You never know where those dancing Balinaka will show up!"

- Fode

The Balinaka (singular, Balinak) were a species of strong, amphibious mammals native to the arctic planet Garnib. They were covered with thick fur, though they also had a dual lung/gill system which enabled them to breathe both air and water. They also had webbing between each digit and flexible, long tails. Balinaka also had excellent vision, and could see in dark conditions. Their diet consisted mostly of fish.

The Balinaka shared Garnib with the Vernols. Their homeworld was extremely cold, with several continents covered by glaciers dozens of meters thick. The Balinaka carved entire underground cities called Sewfes. The Balinaka were also skilled at sculpting ice, a skill which won them fame throughout the galaxy.

Balinaka were encountered often enough by Rebel SpecOps personnel to acquire the nickname "bears."

That is why we say oh yeah

In the Senex sector, Balinaka and Ossans were used as slaves by House Vandron on Karfeddion and other worlds.

Behind the scenes
Leland Chee has confirmed that "Balinaka" is the correct spelling of this species name ; the misspelling "Bilanaka" appears in Children of the Jedi.

Appearances

 * Star Wars: Anakin's Speedway
 * Children of the Jedi