Uncommon familiars

[Quickbeam]

I was just curious what animals you may have run across, or inserted into your own campaign, as familiars that are a bit outside the norm. I've heard mention of monkeys on these Boards, and I'm sure that there are many other fine (and amusing) examples. Also, what bonuses or benefits do these unusual creatures provide their arcane masters? Finally, please pass along any noteworthy stories on the success (or lack thereof) relating to the inclusion of such animals in your campaign.

I'm looking at new options for this frequently used spell, particularly those which I might apply in our next session. Thanks in advance for your help .

 

[Hand of Evil]

Armodillo + to armor and tunneling.

 

[Quickbeam]

Now there's an animal I would have never considered, but I like the idea quite a bit. Thanks.

 

[Doc_Souark]

Squirrel

 

[Kid Charlemagne]

I'm thinking of running an elven sorceror in the next game I play in, with the intention of becoming a Mirror Master, from BoEM.

I was thinking that for a high-charisma, mirror-obsessed sorceror, maybe a Pomeranian, or a Shiitzu? Some little yappy lapdog...

 

[Hand of Evil]

Now there's an animal I would have never considered, but I like the idea quite a bit. Thanks.

Works well with Kobolds and goblins.

 

[Rune]

One of my spellcasters considered having the halfling in my game (another PC, mind you) become his familiar. The player of the halfling thought it was a great idea, but the original player went with another animal, instead.

 

[Garmorn]

We have used both a racoon and a humming bird in our games.

Racoon could help with locks and trap finding and the humming bird's small size and speed made it great for delivering touch spells to friend and foe alike.

 

[Neo]

More one for those who have improved Familiar, but

Horse (grants Endurance feat)

 

[The Cardinal]

mule (+2 to Con)