Squalls are small rodent-like creatures originating from the Chandrila system. Like many rodents, they possess a flexible bone and joint structure which allows them to contort into a variety of positions and flatten out in order to gain access to small openings.
On their homeworld of Chandrila, squalls are greatly respected and often allowed to wander freely across field and city. The planet's native humans have even engineered special squall-sized tunnels throughout high traffic areas to prevent injuries or death from accidental encounters with vehicles.
Their soft fur, sociable behavior and ubiquity have led to the species widespread adoption as pets and companion animals. Though the domestication process is not difficult, squalls must be raised from birth. While not aggressive, wild-born specimens dislike captivity and will often attempt to escape, with their unique physiology making them highly suited to this task.
Among spacers, squalls are often viewed as little more than vermin. Wild squalls wander onto unattended ships, where they can quickly form an infestation. Their flexible bone structure allows them to squeeze through seemingly impenetrable openings. A pack of hungry squalls can consume copious amounts of food within a surprisingly short period of time, and more than a few freighter captains have opened their holds only to discover missing grain shipments and bloated squalls.
Squall meat is widely traded throughout all sectors of the galaxy. The creature's small size, docile nature and relative abundance make it ideal for shipment to developing colonies in the Outer Rim. It is also enjoyed as a delicacy at many high end restaurants near the Core.