For almost four decades, the Star Wars universe has introduced diminutive alien races of varying cuteness. We’re pretty neutral about Jawas, and we don’t want to hug an Ugnaught, but we love us some Loth-Cats! For years, we thought that the Ewoks were the pinnacle of Star Wars creations most likely to be confused with a stuffed animal, but then came the Porgs, the latest creature to make their debut in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Today’s Nerdist News is taking a closer look at the Porgs to determine their role in the next chapter of the saga.

There are potentially minor spoilers ahead for The Last Jedi! Proceed with caution, Padawans!

Join host and guardian of the Hoojibs, Jessica Chobot, as she examines everything we know about the Porgs. As you can see from the cover of the Chewie and the Porgs children’s book, everyone’s favorite Wookie has a special connection to these birds. And it’s not because they’re tasty and delicious! Although we suspect that they would be much easier to eat than Ewoks.

It’s no coincidence that the first live-action image of a Porg was set in the cockpit of the Millennium Falcon, with Chewie nearby. Keep in mind, this film is starting immediately after the events of The Force Awakens, so it’s only been a short time since Chewbacca saw his best bud, Han Solo, take a lightsaber to the chest. Perhaps Chewie’s friendship with the Porgs will help fill that Han-sized hole in his heart. But don’t get too close to them. We still think that the Porgs are going to have some very sharp teeth for anyone who threatens them!

What are your thoughts on the Porgs? Let’s discuss in the comment section below!

Images: Lucasfilm