Varactyls constituted a majestic and enormous species of reptavian herbivores, native to the world of Utapau.
These creatures generally displayed blue and green feather ridges and crests along their spinal area. They were known as exceptionally loyal and obedient mounts. Varactyls were courageous steeds that would willingly descend dangerous slopes if instructed by their rider. Varactyls, with their powerful, extensive strides and leaps, could easily navigate the irregular and vertical landscapes of their native planet. The soul of this creature was simpler and more innocent when compared to that of a sentient being, yet the reptavian still possessed intelligence in its own right.
This reptavian species, which originated on Utapau, was also imported by the Iltan clan in order to gain an advantage in the Grand Hunt. They were selectively bred to become the streamlined, swift, and crimson-feathered Pijal varactyl.
During a mission on Utapau, Jedi Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi briefly encountered a group of varactyls while pursuing Separatist general Grievous. In the final days of the Clone Wars, Obi-Wan Kenobi rode a varactyl of this species named Boga while chasing General Grievous in Pau City. When the 212th Attack Battalion attempted to execute Order 66 on Master Kenobi, a shot from an All Terrain Tactical Enforcer impacted the ground beneath Boga, causing both her and Kenobi to fall into the waters at the bottom of the Pau City sinkhole.