Warhammer 40k Archives

The Diverse World of Squigs

Squigs are a vital part of the Ork ecosystem, serving various purposes in their society. These small creatures come in different breeds, each with unique characteristics and uses.

Hairy Squigs: The Ultimate Hair Solution

One of the most notable breeds is the Hairy Squig, known for its long, bright-colored hair. Orks use these Squigs to create elaborate hairstyles, which serve as a status symbol among their kind. To achieve this, Gretchin servants place the Squigs on an Ork’s bald head, where they latch on and feed on the Ork’s skin. This unusual method allows the Squigs to live indefinitely on their host.

Painboyz’s Ingenious Use for Hairy Squigs

Painboyz have discovered another use for Hairy Squigs. By applying them to open wounds, the Squigs’ tiny teeth hold the wound closed, promoting healing and preventing infection. This unorthodox method has proven effective, with the Squigs living on the wound for years, keeping it clean and free from infection.

Other Notable Breeds

• Chin Squigs: A specific breed used as a beard equivalent, signifying age and status among Orks.
• Herd Squigs (Squighounds or Sniffer Squigs): Bred for speed, intelligence, ferocity, and endurance, these Squigs help Runtherds herd Gretchin and track lost equipment.
• Oily Squigs: Producing a thick, oily secretion, these Squigs are used for machine oil, with Orks extracting the oil through various methods.
• Paint Squigs: Excreting powerful dyes, these Squigs are used by Gretchin for painting banners and clothes, while Orks use them for warpaint.
• Parasite-Hunting Squigs: Tiny, voracious feeders that clean parasites from Orks’ bodies and clothes.
• Smasha Squigs: Large, vicious Squigs ridden by Beast Snagga Nobs.
• Spiky Squigs: Covered in spines, these Squigs shoot out their spines when agitated, inflicting a poisonous sting on threatening creatures.
• Squigeons: Used for transferring messages in Ork tribes and warbands, but often preyed upon by Squighawks and bored Ork Flyboy pilots.
• Squighawks: Flying breeds that are too wild to be trained, but occasionally used by Ork Runtherds.

These diverse Squig breeds play a significant role in the functioning of Ork society, showcasing the resourcefulness and adaptability of these remarkable creatures.