10 Animal Species That Inspired Zootopia Characters
Animals have always been a fascinating subject for humans, and it's no surprise that many of them have inspired some of the most beloved characters in Disney's Zootopia. From the film's protagonist, Judy Hopps, to the sly and cunning Nick Wilde, the characters in Zootopia were inspired by a diverse range of animal species. In this article, we'll take a look at 10 animal species that inspired some of the most memorable characters in Zootopia.
The Real-Life Inspirations Behind Zootopia Characters
Zootopia, the animated Disney film released in 2016, is set in a world where animals have evolved to live in harmony with each other, free from the constraints of their natural habitats. The film features a diverse range of characters, each with their unique personalities, traits, and characteristics. But have you ever wondered what inspired the creation of these characters?
1. Judy Hopps - The Eastern Cottontail
Judy Hopps, the protagonist of Zootopia, is a rabbit who dreams of becoming a police officer. Her character was inspired by the Eastern Cottontail, a species of rabbit found in North America. Like Judy, Eastern Cottontails are known for their agility, quick thinking, and strong instincts.
2. Nick Wilde - The Red Fox
Nick Wilde, the sly and cunning fox who becomes Judy's partner, was inspired by the Red Fox. Found in North America, Europe, and Asia, Red Foxes are known for their intelligence, adaptability, and cunning nature, all of which are reflected in Nick's character.
3. Chief Bogo - The Cape Buffalo
Chief Bogo, the strict and no-nonsense police chief, was inspired by the Cape Buffalo, a large and powerful species of bovine found in Africa. Like Chief Bogo, Cape Buffaloes are known for their strength, confidence, and authoritative nature.
4. Bellwether - The Sheep
Bellwether, the film's main antagonist, is a sheep who is revealed to be the mastermind behind a sinister plot. Her character was inspired by the domestic sheep, a species known for their calm and docile nature. However, as we see in the film, Bellwether's character is far from docile.
5. Mr. Big - The Arctic Shrew
Mr. Big, the Don Corleone-like crime lord, is a shrew who runs a powerful crime syndicate in Zootopia. His character was inspired by the Arctic Shrew, a small but fierce species of mammal found in the Arctic regions.
6. Fru Fru - The Warthog
Fru Fru, the lovable and eccentric warthog, was inspired by the common warthog, a species found in Africa. Like Fru Fru, warthogs are known for their unique appearance, social nature, and tendency to be a bit eccentric.
7. Gazelle - The Thomson's Gazelle
Gazelle, the pop star and celebrity, was inspired by the Thomson's Gazelle, a species found in East Africa. Like Gazelle, Thomson's Gazelles are known for their speed, agility, and striking appearance.
8. Clawhauser - The Cheetah
Clawhauser, the lovable and awkward cheetah, was inspired by the cheetah, a species found in Africa and Asia. Like Clawhauser, cheetahs are known for their speed, agility, and distinctive appearance.
9. DMV Sloths - The Linne's Two-Toed Sloth
The DMV sloths, who are infamous for their slow and sluggish nature, were inspired by the Linne's Two-Toed Sloth, a species found in Central and South America. Like the DMV sloths, Linne's Two-Toed Sloths are known for their slow movement and laid-back nature.
10. Weaselton - The Least Weasel
Weaselton, the cunning and sly weasel, was inspired by the least weasel, a species found in North America, Europe, and Asia. Like Weaselton, least weasels are known for their intelligence, agility, and cunning nature.
Gallery of Zootopia Characters Inspirations
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspired the creation of Zootopia characters?
+The creation of Zootopia characters was inspired by a diverse range of animal species, including mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Which animal species inspired Judy Hopps' character?
+Judy Hopps' character was inspired by the Eastern Cottontail, a species of rabbit found in North America.
What is the name of the crime lord in Zootopia?
+The crime lord in Zootopia is named Mr. Big, a shrew who runs a powerful crime syndicate.
We hope you enjoyed this article about the animal species that inspired Zootopia characters. Let us know in the comments below which character is your favorite and why!