Thanator

The thanator is a creature that lives on Pandora. Although many regions of the moon have yet to be explored, xenobiologists currently believe that it may be the most common land predator on Pandora. Similar to a panther or lion, this enormous, powerful animal is unique in its ability to lord over its territory and strike fear into the largest and fiercest of Pandora's creatures.

A lean and cat-like creature, it is known for large runs and leaps. In addition to conventional ripping and tearing, the thanator can also deliver a lethal blow from its thin armored tail. An impact from the tail is strong enough to defend against other thanators. 

The thanator has ten sensory quills that sprout from sections of armor plating that surround the rear of its skull. It has been hypothesized that they may be tied to prey location; possibly echolocation or another sensory system. The quills also flare up and produce a more menacing appearance.