The two characters are members of a fictional alien race called Rigellians. In common with all Rigellians, Kang and Kodos have green skin and large heads which are usually covered by protective domes. They have pointed ears and each have a single large eye which resembles that of a cat. They have sharp pointed teeth and saliva constantly drips from their mouths. The rest of their bodies is largely made up of tentacles. By an amazing coincidence, their native language, Rigellian, happens to be exactly the same as English.