Needlous is a small grub-like enemy that has so far only appeared in Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land, Kirby: Canvas Curse, Kirby's Return to Dream Land, and Kirby's Dream Collection: Special Edition. On a regular basis, they move slowly, but they will charge up and roll vigorously at an amazing speed when approached. Their behavior stays the same in all three games they appear in. Their name is a combination of the words needle and louse.
Needlous essentially replace the Togezo from Kirby's Adventure. Togezo shared similar properties to Needlous. However, Togezos were turtle-like creatures wearing spiky shells, whereas Needlous is a small caterpillar. The two have the same abilities and behavior and even give Kirby the same Copy Ability when inhaled—the powerful Needle. Needlous appears in the New Challenge Stages in Kirby's Dream Collection: Special Edition as well. It appears in the Smash Combat Chamber and Magolor Race EX.
Physical Appearance
Needlous is a cute little larval enemy with yellow and black stripes running along its small, slug-like body. Its body has eight sharp pointy spikes along its back. When it curls up in a ball to ward off predators, it becomes able to travel at a breakneck speed. It has small, beady black eyes. As a ball, the spikes completely cover the outer section of its body, making it a complete hazard if Kirby approaches.
Trivia
- Needlous' yellow and black coloring makes it look a little like a bee. This fits in with the needle theme, as bees have pointy stingers. However, Needlous was most likely based on the Lophocampa maculata species, commonly known as the Spotted Tussock Moth Caterpillar.
- Togezo and Needlous' tactic of rolling around as a spiky ball later appears as one of Needle Kirby's moves in Kirby's Return to Dream Land.
