Banthas

Banthas are domesticated herd animals featured in the Star Wars franchise. They were first seen in the original 1977 film Star Wars. Only one Bantha was featured in the film and was "played" by an elephant named Mardji who wore a Bantha costume draped across her body. Mardji's feet can be briefly seen in the film. Addtional Banthas were included in the 1997 Special Edition release of the film and were rendered using computer generated technology. A herd of Banthas can be seen walking across the Dune Sea.

Banthas are indiginous to the planet Tatooine and are most commonly used as mounts and beasts of burden for Tusken Raiders. Tusken Raiders share a special bond with their Bantha and hold the creatures in great reverence.

In 0 BBY, a Tusken Raider named URoRRuR'R'R and two others were traveling across the Jundland Wastes when they came upon moisture farmer Luke Skywalker. URoRRuR'R'R attacked Skywalker, but was inclined to flee when a man named Obi-Wan Kenobi appeared, imitating the howl of a fearsome Krayt dragon. The raiders mounted their Banthas and left the area.