What is "splintercat"

The splintercat (Felynx arbordiffisus) is a legendary creature and fictional animal in the United States.

The splintercat is a nocturnal feline animal of great ferocity. It flies through the air with terrific speed and when it hits a large tree, it knocks the branches off, withers the trunk and leaves it standing like a silvery ghost. These dead snags can be seen in many parts of the Pacific Northwest. The splinter cat performs this feat that it is named after to expose raccoons and bees. However, the act of breaking open trees with its head leaves it with a constant headache, which causes it always to be in a foul mood. Accordingly, one is advised to never approach a splintercat.

"Splintercat Creek," found in the northern Cascade Range of Oregon, is named after this legendary animal.

The Splintercat appears in the book The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles by Julie Andrews Edwards. This particular Splintercat answers to the Prime Minister of Whangdoodland and also enjoys playing Cat's cradle.