Grinder (enemy)



Grinders (referred to as Ukikis in Yoshi's New Island) are a type of monkey that antagonizes Yoshi in Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island and Yoshi's Island: Super Mario Advance 3. Grinders usually appear in tropical locations and for unknown reasons seem to enjoy attacking Yoshi without provocation. Some of their methods of attack includes spitting seeds, dropping bombs, and grabbing Baby Mario. Grinders cannot be defeated with eggs or by getting stomped. This only stuns them. To take them out, Yoshi has to either eat them, or run over them while they are unconscious. Some are harmless and just a source of eggs. However, they are difficult to eat because of their speed.

When hit, they turn a darker shade of brown and run away. They usually jump onto vines and climb them as high as possible, but if a Yoshi gets too close, they run away again. They are invincible when swimming in water. A Grinder appears in Tetris Attack, being an ally with Poochy. Grinders possibly inspire the Ukikis from Super Mario 64 and later games. Grinders also make a reappearance in Yoshi's Island DS. In this installment, they are all harmless, but are still difficult to catch due to their agility. One of them kidnaps Baby Peach at the beginning of the level Baby DK, the Jungle King!

On a side note, in Yoshi's New Island, Grinders can't be eaten.