Nibbles Maplestick

Nibbles Maplestick is a beaver and a major character in Zootopia 2. She is a podcaster and conspiracy theorist who runs the show "Scales and Tales," which covers topics most Zootopians consider fringe—including the existence of reptiles. Her knowledge of Zootopia's hidden reptile population and the underground community at Marsh Market makes her an invaluable ally to Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde during the Lynxley conspiracy.

"Stand-offish around landies." — Nibbles, warning Judy and Nick about Marsh Market etiquette

Background

Zootopia 2

Nibbles first appears reporting on a snake sighting in Zootopia—the first in a century. When Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde become fugitives after being framed by the Lynxley family, Fru Fru suggests they consult Nibbles as a reptile expert.

Nibbles eagerly drives them to Marsh Market, a neighborhood for aquatic animals that houses a secret reptile population. She guides them through the community's customs, warning them that the locals are "stand-offish around landies" and that they need to show respect. She introduces them to Russ the plumber walrus and leads them to the Reptile Hangout, where they meet Jesus, a basilisk who provides crucial information about the Lynxley Journal.

When the ZPD raids the hangout, Nibbles is arrested. Later, when Nick is placed in a nearby cell, she gnaws a mop handle into a key to help them escape—accidentally releasing all prisoners in the process, including Dawn Bellwether.

Nibbles rides with Nick in Flash's car to reach Judy at the weather wall. She saves Nick from being trapped outside the control room. She is then stabbed with snake venom by Pawbert during his betrayal, but survives thanks to Gary's antivenom.

At the climax, Nibbles plays a pivotal role in convincing Mayor Winddancer to stand up to the Lynxleys and be a real hero instead of just playing one on screen. She also whittles a log into a baseball bat to help subdue Pawbert during the final chase.

Personality

Nibbles is friendly, helpful, and enthusiastic—she immediately declares that she, Nick, and Judy will be best friends. She has a practical knowledge of Zootopia's underbelly that proves essential to the heroes' investigation.

Key personality traits:

• Eccentric — Her conspiracy theorist background gives her an unfiltered, slightly unhinged energy
• Resourceful — Can gnaw through nearly anything; fashions tools from wood instinctively
• Loyal — Sticks with the heroes through danger despite having no obligation to do so
• Culturally aware — Understands the customs and sensitivities of Marsh Market's diverse population
• Sensitive about species — Dislikes being called a "woodchuck"

Series Appearances

Season 1

S01E16 "The Words"

Nibbles participates via video link in a structured apology session facilitated by Dr. Fuzzby, where Pawbert formally apologizes to each of his victims. True to form, Nibbles dismisses the trauma with chaotic irreverence, calling it "great branding" for her podcast rather than engaging with the emotional weight of the moment.

S01E19 "Green Candle"

Nibbles joins Pawbert's 25th birthday celebration via video call alongside Gary De'Snake, adding warmth to the impromptu party.

S01E23 "The Trial"

Nibbles testifies via tablet at the Lynxley RICO trial, delivering a multi-part victim impact statement with her characteristic energy. She has seven separate dialogue blocks in the scene---far from a minor cameo.

Key Relationships

Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde

Nibbles serves as an essential guide during their fugitive period, providing access to Marsh Market and the reptile community. Her eagerness and enthusiasm contrast with the gravity of the situation, providing moments of levity.

Gary De'Snake

Fellow ally in the fight to prove the existence and rights of reptiles. Gary's antivenom saves Nibbles's life after Pawbert's betrayal.

Mayor Winddancer

Nibbles is the one who convinces Winddancer to stop being Milton's puppet and become a genuine hero, leading to the climactic moment where Winddancer takes down the Lynxley family.

Pawbert Pawthorne

Nibbles is one of Pawbert's four victims. He assured her he was on her side before stabbing her with venom—a premeditated betrayal. Her survival and Pawbert's subsequent remorse are part of the series' broader examination of accountability and redemption.

Trivia

• Nibbles's name is a reference to how real-life beavers feed on wood bark.
• Her surname, Maplestick, may be a reference to Canada, where beavers are a national symbol.
• Her wooden car features stickers including "Reptiles Exist," a UFO sticker reading "Going Home," and the title of her podcast: "Scales and Tales."
• She was chosen to be a beaver because beavers have scales on their tails like reptiles do, blending mammal familiarity with reptile connection.
• She dislikes being called a woodchuck.