Trinoc

Trinocs are a sapient, spacefaring alien species hailing from a part of the galaxy outside known space. Their real name is not known. The name "Trinocs" was given to them by Louis Wu, who made first contact with this species in 2830.

Biology
Trinocs stand about 5 ft in height (~ 1.52 m), although most of it is due to their long thin legs. The torso, raised about 3 ft above the floor by the legs, is shaped like a beer barrel, with no visible neck separating it from the creature's head. They have three eyes set deep in sockets. The mouth is triangular, with yellow serrated blades visible behind gristle lips. Despite the absence of a visible neck, they can turn their heads backwards swiftly. Their hands have three mutually-opposed clawed digits. Their skin is yellow.

Culture and society
Trinocs are naturally suspicious creatures, almost to the point of paranoia.

Appearances

 * "There Is a Tide", by Larry Niven (1968)
 * Ringworld, by Larry Niven (1970)