How many bird Pokemon are there?

There are 85 bird Pokemon. 41 of them have a bird word in their category, and the rest have a bird in their design, from Fearow's vultures to the rooster mask of Tapu Koko.

What is the strongest bird Pokemon?

Lugia, Ho-Oh, Reshiram and Yveltal tie at a base stat total of 680. Among the bird Pokemon that are not legendary, Archeops leads at 567.

Yes. Psyduck is the Duck Pokemon, though its design also shares some traits with platypuses.

Yes. Togekiss is based on fairies and birds, with the white color of a dove and belly markings similar to a snowy owl.

Which Pokemon are penguins?

Piplup, Prinplup, Empoleon and Eiscue, plus Delibird, which takes parts of its look from the rockhopper penguin.

The Origins of 85 Bird Pokemon & the Real Birds Behind Them

#016

Pidgey

Pidgey is the Tiny Bird Pokemon, and despite its name it looks more like a female house sparrow than a pigeon. The black markings around its eyes recall Ra and Horus, the Egyptian sun and sky gods drawn with the heads of falcons. It is very docile, and if attacked, it will often kick up sand to protect itself rather than fight back. Throwing sand and then leaving is a plan we respect. It stands 0.3 m tall.

#017

Pidgeotto

Pidgeotto is where the line stops looking like a sparrow. Its large size and predatory behavior put it closer to a bird of prey such as an osprey or an eagle, and its red crest is somewhat similar to the crests of cockatoos. It is full of vitality and constantly flies around its large territory in search of prey. (We have heard of being full of vitality but have never caught it.) Its Keen Eye ability stops opponents from lowering its accuracy. An ability is a passive effect that works on its own in battle.

#018

Pidgeot

Pidgeot has Shiny colors (the rare alternate coloring) that resemble a golden eagle. It flies at Mach 2 speed, seeking prey, and its large talons are feared as wicked weapons.

It can also Mega Evolve, a stronger form it takes for one battle, and Mega Pidgeot's crest seems to be inspired by punk hairstyles. A form that gets stronger and also gets a new haircut is an impulse we understand.

#021

Spearow

Spearow is a sparrow with the hooked beak of a shrike. Shrikes are territorial and are sometimes called "butcher birds" due to their brutal feeding habits, which may be the basis for Spearow's aggressive nature. It is inept at flying high, though it can fly around very fast to protect its territory. (Being bad at the main bird skill and furious about it is something we relate to.) Its hidden ability, a rarer second ability, is Sniper, which makes its critical hits (random hits that deal extra damage) inflict 3× damage instead of 2×.

#022

Fearow

Fearow, the Beak Pokemon, is based on vultures and condors, given its long neck, sharp beak, shaggy feathers and broad wings. Its neck and beak also recall water birds such as the Goliath heron, and the comb on its head is similar to a rooster's comb or a mohawk. It dates back many years, and it flies high and away, instantly, if it senses danger. Being ancient and still first out of the door is what we call wisdom.

#054

Psyduck

Psyduck is the Duck Pokemon, and its yellow coloring and simple shape could be inspired by rubber ducks. It also shares some traits with platypuses, such as the lack of a well defined neck and the strands of hair on its head. It suffers perpetual headaches, and if the agony grows too great, its latent power erupts, contrary to Psyduck's intent, while our own headaches only turn into a nap. Its Cloud Nine ability negates all effects of weather in battle.

#055

Golduck

Golduck pushes the duck toward the kappa, a Japanese water creature. Like the kappa, it has a humanoid body, a beak and webbed hands and feet, and it is said to drag people into the water. The pearl-like gem on its forehead is likely a nod to the shirikodama, a small ball containing a person's soul that kappas often stole. We will not ask where Golduck keeps the souls. It can swim easily through rough seas, clawing its way through the high waves.

#083

Farfetch'd

Farfetch'd, the Wild Duck Pokemon, comes from a Japanese saying, "a duck comes bearing spring onions", which means an easy target or a golden opportunity. Shortened, the phrase reads the same as its Japanese name, Kamonegi. They use a plant stalk as a weapon, and several distinct styles of stalk fighting have been observed. A martial arts school for vegetables is one we would enroll in. Galarian Farfetch'd carries a leek that resembles the Giant Musselburgh, a larger variant first bred in Scotland.

#084

Doduo

Doduo, the Twin Bird Pokemon, has more in common with ostriches than dodos despite its name, and it shows some similarities to the moa, an extinct flightless bird from New Zealand. Its short wings make flying difficult. Instead, it runs at high speed on developed legs. (Two heads and neither of them can fly, which is a meeting we have sat in.) Its Early Bird ability makes sleep pass twice as quickly.

#085

Dodrio

Dodrio, the Triple Bird Pokemon, adds the crests of a cassowary to Doduo's ostrich frame. Its three heads may draw on the Buddhist asuras, three-headed demigods whose faces are sometimes said to embody joy, anger and sorrow. Three moods in one body is something we understand. One of Doduo's two heads splits to form a unique species, and it runs close to 40 mph in prairies.

#144

Articuno

Articuno is one of the three legendary birds of the first generation (legendary Pokemon are rare ones tied to the game's big stories). It takes from mythical birds such as the Persian Simurgh and the Chinese Fenghuang, while its body is very similar to the white-throated magpie-jay. The three birds appear to embody seasons, and Articuno represents winter. It can control ice at will and lives in snowy mountains riddled with permafrost. We already need a blanket in October.

#145

Zapdos

Zapdos is based on the Native American legend of the thunderbird, a spirit of thunder, lightning, and rain that took the form of a giant bird. Its wingbeats were said to create thunder. Among the legendary birds, it represents summer. When Zapdos rubs its feathers together, lightning will fall immediately after. Galarian Zapdos has only a limited ability to fly, and its powerful kicks might draw on the secretarybird, which hunts by stomping and kicking its prey. A bird that would rather kick than fly is one we would happily sit beside.

#146

Moltres

Moltres is based on firebirds such as the phoenix and the Slavic firebird, and on the Vermilion Bird of the Chinese Four Symbols, which represents fire and the south. Among the legendary birds it represents spring, which leaves autumn unrepresented. It uses its radiant, flame-cloaked wings to light up paths for those lost in the mountains. We would follow a winged lamp with good manners anywhere. It stands 2 m tall. Galarian Moltres appears to resemble a cormorant.

#163

Hoothoot

Hoothoot, the Owl Pokemon, is a young horned owl crossed with a clock. Its round body is the clock face, the two prongs of its crest resemble clock hands, and the markings around its eyes resemble gears. Standing on one leg was inspired by Ken Sugimori's childhood pet bird, which did the same. It begins to hoot at the same time each day, and some Trainers use them in place of clocks. (An alarm clock that needs feeding is one of several we already own.)

#164

Noctowl

Noctowl is based on a horned owl, particularly the Eurasian eagle-owl due to its red eyes. The feathers that make up its "horns" also resemble large, bushy eyebrows, a sign of age and wisdom, which may explain its ability to learn Psychic-type moves. It rotates its head 180 degrees to sharpen its intellectual power when it needs to think. Turning the head that far to think is a trick we would pull something trying.

#176

Togetic

Togetic, the Happiness Pokemon, has a design that appears to draw inspiration from a fairy, a baby bird and an egg, and it may also be based on an angel. No records exist of Togetic being seen in the wilds, and rumors abound that it evolves under the loving care of a trusted human companion, upon whom it then bestows great joy, something we tried on our cat, who declined. Its Serene Grace ability doubles the chance of its moves' extra effects.

#177

Natu

Natu, the Tiny Bird Pokemon, is based on a quetzal, and it could also draw on colorful birds like parrots, possibly the kakapo. It also resembles a quail. Because its wings are not yet fully grown, it has to hop to get around, and it is always staring at something. We would like to know what it has seen while hopping and staring. It stands 0.2 m tall. Its hidden ability, Magic Bounce, reflects most moves that deal no damage back at their user.

#198

Murkrow

Murkrow, the Darkness Pokemon, is based on the carrion crow with a witch on top. Its crest can be taken to resemble a pointed hat, its beak a hooked nose, and its tail the bristles of a broom. It may also be inspired by witches' familiars, which were often crows or ravens. It is widely shunned as a bearer of ill fortune, and people chant "Workrum, Workrum" when they cross its path. We would chant it as well, just to avoid taking chances.

#225

Delibird

Delibird, the Delivery Pokemon, takes parts of its look from the rockhopper penguin. Its red-and-white color scheme, its ability to give presents and the sack-like tail it carries may come from Santa Claus, and possibly from the white stork. It has a generous habit of sharing its food with people and Pokemon, which keeps it scrounging around for more food. Being generous to the point of being broke is a feeling we know from December. Its Hustle ability makes its physical moves 1.5× stronger but cuts their accuracy to 0.8×.

#227

Skarmory

Skarmory, the Armor Bird Pokemon, has much in common with the Andean condor and with cranes, birds that are held in high esteem in Japan. Its concept could be a pun on tsuru (crane) and tsurugi (sword), and it is also similar to metallic birds from myth such as the Stymphalian birds. People fashion swords from its shed feathers, which makes it a popular element in heraldic designs. (We would pet a bird made of knives only with oven gloves.)

#233

Porygon2

Porygon2 is based on a bird or paper crane that has been rendered using computer software, and the head-tipping motion it shows in some games recalls a drinking bird toy. It is lighter than Porygon, which may be a nod to optimization, and its biology remains inscrutable. We find the whole thing inscrutable before coffee too.

#249

Lugia

Lugia, the Diving Pokemon, takes its avian body, coloration and face markings from the grey heron, and its rounded feet resemble those of grebes, a family of diving birds. It may also be based on Ryujin, a dragon who lived on the ocean floor and was the Shinto god of the sea. A light fluttering of its wings can blow apart regular houses, and it chooses to live out of sight deep under the sea as a result, a courtesy we cannot expect from our upstairs neighbors. It stands 5.2 m tall.

#250

Ho-Oh

Ho-Oh, the Rainbow Pokemon, may be based on the Fenghuang, the immortal phoenix of China from which it derives its name. It may also draw on the Huma bird, said never to rest and to bring happiness to anyone who glimpses it. Its feathers glow in seven colors depending on the angle at which they are struck by light, and it is said to live at the foot of a rainbow. Like the phoenix, it stands for resurrection: it had a hand in resurrecting Suicune, Raikou and Entei, and its hidden ability, Regenerator, heals a third of its HP when it switches out, which is how we regenerate patience, by leaving the room.

#255

Torchic

Torchic, the Chick Pokemon, is a chicken hatchling whose bright orange color comes from painted chicks, which are dyed and sold during festivals and fairs. It may also be based on the basan, a legendary fire-breathing chicken in Japanese folklore. It keeps its flame in a place inside its body, and if you give it a hug, it will be glowing with warmth. (A heated chick we are allowed to hug sorts out our winter plans.) Its hidden ability, Speed Boost, raises its Speed one stage after each turn.

#256

Combusken

Combusken, the Young Fowl Pokemon, may be based on a cockfighting chicken and, like Torchic, on the basan of Japanese folklore. It picks up the Fighting type at this stage. It battles with the intensely hot flames it spews from its beak and with outstandingly destructive kicks, and its cry is very loud and distracting. We had a loud, hot and kicking phase as teenagers too.

#257

Blaziken

Blaziken, the Blaze Pokemon, is based on a chicken, possibly the Shamo breed, and its feathery legs resemble those of a Cochin chicken. Its Fighting type and human-like build may come from Muay Thai fighters, since its official artwork shows a typical flying knee. It can easily clear a 30-story building in one leap, while we take the lift to the second floor. Its hidden ability, Speed Boost, keeps raising its Speed while it stays in battle.

#276

Taillow

Taillow, the Tiny Swallow Pokemon, is based on a swallow, specifically the barn swallow or welcome swallow. It has recently left its nest, and as a result it sometimes becomes lonesome and cries at night. It also feeds on Wurmple that live in forests. We admire the work ethic of a bird that hunts while homesick. Its Guts ability raises its Attack to 1.5× while it has a major status problem such as a burn or poison.

#277

Swellow

Swellow, the Swallow Pokemon, keeps the barn swallow base and adds colors and a crest similar to those of a treeswift. Its tail feathers resemble a pair of katana swords, a nod to Aerial Ace, a move whose Japanese name, Swallow Return, comes from a sword technique by Sasaki Kojiro inspired by a swallow's tail in flight. It is very conscientious about the upkeep of its glossy wings, and two Swellow will clean each other's wings. We would like a friend like that for the gutters.

#278

Wingull

Wingull, the Seagull Pokemon, is a gull whose narrow wings resemble the simplified, V-shaped silhouettes of flying birds in some drawings and paintings. The two tufts above its head resemble cat ears, which may be a reference to the black-tailed gull, known in Japanese as umineko, "sea cat", because its call sounds like a cat. It soars on updrafts without flapping its wings and makes a nest on sheer cliffs at the sea's edge. (A sea cat that never flaps is something we would watch all afternoon.)

#279

Pelipper

Pelipper, the Water Bird Pokemon, is a pelican, a bird known for its large beak and the throat pouch it uses to scoop up prey. It also resembles a small fishing vessel: its curved beak is the boat hull, its head is the deckhouse, and its eyes resemble doors with windows. It skims the water's surface and dips its large bill in the sea to scoop up food and water. Its Drizzle ability summons rain when it enters battle. We know a few people who also bring their own bad weather.

#333

Swablu

Swablu, the Cotton Bird Pokemon, may be based on a bluebird combined with cotton or a cloud. Behaviorally, it is similar to the Canada jay in that they are both given to sitting on people's heads. It looks like a cumulus cloud, which makes it hard for foes to find, and its wings apparently turned white over many generations, which is a camouflage plan we support. It weighs 1.2 kg in total.

#334

Altaria

Altaria, the Humming Pokemon, is primarily inspired by a bluebird. Its Dragon type and longer body suggest Chinese dragons, which in Chinese culture share the bluebird's ties to good fortune. It may also be based on the Peng, a Chinese legendary bird of enormous size, said to travel 3000 li in one flap of its cloud-like wings. Its crest and cheek spots resemble a cockatiel's. It has a kind disposition, but if it is provoked, it will threaten opponents with shrill cries before attacking them without mercy. Being kind until provoked is a setting we have as well.

#393

Piplup

Piplup, the Penguin Pokemon, is likely based on a young penguin, possibly an emperor penguin chick. The light blue crown-shaped marking above its beak may allude to emperor penguins, or to emperors and kings in general. It is as cute as any child but also prideful, unwilling to accept handouts from people, while we could never turn down free snacks.

#394

Prinplup

Prinplup is a penguin whose head crests suggest a species of crested penguin, and its body looks like it is clothed in a tailcoat adorned with buttons. It swims gracefully through the frigid sea and sings with a voice like the roaring tide, and it has powerful, sturdy wings and dignity to match. We are still working on the dignity part. Its hidden ability, Competitive, raises its Special Attack by two stages whenever one of its stats is lowered.

#395

Empoleon

Empoleon, the Emperor Pokemon, is based on an emperor penguin and an emperor, and its names in other languages point to Napoleon Bonaparte. Its beak has the appearance of both a crown and a trident, the weapon of choice for the Greek sea god Poseidon. The people of Hisui have revered it since ancient times as the Master of the Waves, and its wings are a match for even master-crafted blades. We only have a library card to match its title.

#396

Starly

Starly, the Starling Pokemon, is based on a young white-cheeked starling. They gather in large flocks in the fields and mountains, their cries are quite obnoxious, and a strike from their small but strong wings leaves pain that persists for a week. We know people who hold a grudge for less than a week.

#397

Staravia

Staravia is based on an adult starling, though its features look more like an adult northern lapwing. They form remarkably large flocks and are constantly fighting amongst themselves, and the ones with magnificent plumes on their heads seem to be the strong ones. We would lose any contest judged on hair. Its Intimidate ability lowers the opponents' Attack one stage when it enters battle.

#398

Staraptor

Staraptor, the Predator Pokemon, is the white-cheeked starling combined with a bird of prey. Much of its inspiration comes from hawks and falcons, and its overall design could be a pun on the sparrowhawk. It has left the flock, having gained strength enough to survive on its own, and it flies with such force it can carry away large, burly targets. We need two trips for the shopping. Mega Staraptor could be a reference to the roc, a legendary gigantic bird known to prey on giant serpents.

#430

Honchkrow

Honchkrow, the Big Boss Pokemon, is a crow or raven reminiscent of a crime boss, which turns Murkrow into a gang member under it. Its crest even looks like a wide-brimmed fedora hat, an article of clothing often associated with mobsters. One cry from it brings a murder of Murkrow flying, until one would think the curtain of night had fallen. We cannot get anyone to answer a group chat. Its hidden ability, Moxie, raises its Attack one stage each time it knocks out a Pokemon.

#441

Chatot

Chatot, the Music Note Pokemon, is based on a parrot, with the body shape of a conure or lovebird and colors from the larger blue-and-yellow macaw. Its head crest resembles an eighth note, while its tail resembles a metronome. It is a versatile performer skilled in the imitation of human speech, and older, more experienced Chatot can even understand the meaning of the words they mimic. That is worrying, given what we say near birds.

#468

Togekiss

Togekiss, the Jubilee Pokemon, is based on fairies and birds. Its white color and association with peace suggest doves, while its triangular belly markings are similar to a snowy owl. It may also be based on the Japanese take on the Hoo, the Chinese phoenix, for its unwillingness to appear in any areas with strife. Scant few have ever sighted it, and it will reveal itself when peace reigns in the land. We will not be seeing one, then. Its Serene Grace ability doubles the chance of its moves' extra effects.

#488

Cresselia

Cresselia, the Lunar Pokemon, is based on a swan or a crane, and on the heavenly maidens of East Asian swan maiden stories, who sometimes disguise themselves as a swan or a crane. Given its lunar motif, it could be specifically based on Chang'e, a goddess of the Moon in Chinese mythology. It leaves a brilliant line of light in its wake as it flies across the night sky, and it resembles the heavenly maiden who created the Milky Way. We would leave a line of crumbs along its route.

#496

Servine

Servine, the Grass Snake Pokemon, is based on a snake, which makes it the strangest pick here. The bird comes from a flower: the shape of its head, body and crest may be based on the bird of paradise flower, also known as Strelitzia, named after Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, which fits the regal theme of its line. Its leaves cannot be used in photosynthesis when it gets dirty, and for that reason it always keeps itself clean. We clean when guests are coming.

#519

Pidove

Pidove, the Tiny Pigeon Pokemon, is based on pigeons and doves with a heart motif added, a pun on the Japanese words for pigeon and heart, which sound alike. It may also reference doves as a symbol of romance, since Greek mythology tied the bird to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. It is forgetful and not very bright, but many Trainers love it anyway for its friendliness and sincerity. We are also forgetful and not very bright, and still waiting on the love.

#520

Tranquill

Tranquill, the Wild Pigeon Pokemon, is based on an oriental turtle dove and possibly the homing pigeon, a domestic pigeon bred to find its way home over extremely long distances. These Pokemon have acute memories, and delivery workers often choose them as their partners. We were worried about how low the bar was after Pidove. Its hidden ability, Rivalry, makes its attacks 1.25× stronger against Pokemon of the same gender and 0.75× as strong against the opposite gender.

#521

Unfezant

Unfezant, the Proud Pokemon, may be based on the green pheasant, the national bird of Japan. The male's head plumage may be inspired by the King of Saxony bird-of-paradise, and its gender differences reflect real birds in which the males have large head plumage and are more colorful than the females. It is intelligent and intensely proud, and people will sit up and take notice if you become the Trainer of one. We would like people to sit up and take notice, but we have no pheasant.

#566

Archen

Archen, the First Bird Pokemon, is inspired by Archaeopteryx, a bird-like dinosaur once believed by scientists to be the earliest of all birds. It is said to be the ancestor of bird Pokemon, and it lived in treetops, eating berries and Bug Pokemon. (Our own family tree runs out after our grandparents.) Its Attack is 112, but its Defeatist ability halves its Attack and Special Attack once its HP drops to 50% or less.

#567

Archeops

Archeops keeps the Archaeopteryx base, and its body shape also resembles that of a Microraptor, which had feathers on its legs like this Pokemon. It may also be based on the Feathered Serpents of ancient Mesoamerican mythologies. Though capable of flight, it was apparently better at hunting on the ground. We have the same arrangement with the stairs.

#580

Ducklett

Ducklett, the Water Bird Pokemon, is based on a duckling or cygnet, and its bottom plumage resembles a swim ring. Its line may also be based on the fairy tale The Ugly Duckling, in which the "ugly duckling" someday becomes a beautiful swan. They are better at swimming than flying, and they happily eat their favorite food, peat moss, as they dive underwater. We will stick with toast.

#581

Swanna

Swanna, the White Bird Pokemon, is based on a mute swan, and its design seems to draw on the outfit worn by Odette, the main character of the Swan Lake ballet. Swanna start to dance at dusk, and the one dancing in the middle is the leader of the flock. We would be dancing at the back, possibly outside.

#627

Rufflet

Rufflet, the Eaglet Pokemon, is based on the chick of the bald eagle, the national bird of the United States. Unova is based on the New York metropolitan area, and Rufflet's color scheme comes from the red, white, and blue of the flag of the United States. Its chick-like looks belie its hotheadedness, and it keeps challenging its parents, desperate to prove its strength. We were also a difficult teenager, with less excuse.

#628

Braviary

Braviary, the Valiant Pokemon, is based on the bald eagle, and the feathers on its head resemble Native American war bonnets. War bonnets were traditionally only worn by men, which is presumably reflected in Braviary's 100% male gender ratio. It screams a bloodcurdling battle cry as it hunts, and it blasts lakes with shock waves, then scoops up any prey that float to the surface. We admire the confidence of fishing by shouting at a lake. Hisuian Braviary is based on the Steller's sea eagle.

#629

Vullaby

Vullaby, the Diapered Pokemon, is likely based on a vulture chick, and the bone armor it wears is similar to a baby's diaper. Its frequent growth spurts are another link to babies. Vullaby grow quickly, and bones that have gotten too small for older Vullaby often get passed down to younger ones in the nest. (We got a coat from our relatives instead of a skull.)

#630

Mandibuzz

Mandibuzz, the Bone Vulture Pokemon, may be based on Old World vultures. Its specialization in bones is much like the bearded vulture, and its appearance most closely resembles a lappet-faced vulture. Its female-only status may allude to the ancient Egyptian belief that all vultures were female. They adorn themselves with bones, and different bones come into and fall out of popularity. We cannot keep up with our own fashion trends either.

#643

Reshiram

Reshiram, the Vast White Pokemon, resembles a wyvern with characteristics of other animals, such as birds, pterosaurs, and canines. It and Zekrom are based on yin and yang, and its tail, the center point of its design, is based on an electric turbine. The crest on its head and its feathers resemble smoke trails and white fire. If people ignore truth and let themselves become consumed by greed, Reshiram will arrive to burn their kingdoms down. We have noted this and will behave. It weighs 330 kg in total.

#661

Fletchling

Fletchling, the Tiny Robin Pokemon, is based on a Japanese robin, and its tail design and name suggest an arrow. Its body temperature increases sharply when it gets excited, and you might get burned if you touch a Fletchling with bare hands. We will admire a robin you should not hold from the bench. Its hidden ability, Gale Wings, raises the priority of its Flying moves, which lets them go before other moves.

#662

Fletchinder

Fletchinder, the Ember Pokemon, is a cross between a Japanese robin and a waxwing, and its Fire type may be a reference to the flame robin. Fletchinder are exceedingly territorial and aggressive, and they fight among themselves over feeding grounds. We understand fighting over the buffet. Its Flame Body ability has a 30% chance of burning a Pokemon that touches it.

#663

Talonflame

Talonflame, the Scorching Pokemon, is based on the peregrine falcon. Its Fire type might come from records of birds of prey such as whistling kites purposefully starting fires to take advantage of the fleeing prey. It dives toward prey at speeds of up to 310 mph and assaults them with powerful kicks, giving the prey no chance to escape. We will keep our distance from hunting by arson.

#701

Hawlucha

Hawlucha, the Wrestling Pokemon, is a bird of prey combined with a luchador, and it may also draw inspiration from Aztec eagle warriors. Its green, white and red color scheme may be inspired by the flag of Mexico, which fits its lucha libre theme. Its debut in Kalos may be a reference to masked wrestling originating in Paris. It always strikes a pose before going for its finishing move, and opponents sometimes take advantage of that time to counterattack. (Posing first and losing second is something we feel seen by.)

#717

Yveltal

Yveltal, the Destruction Pokemon, is shaped like the letter Y. It resembles the long-tailed widowbird and carrion birds such as crows and vultures, and it may draw on bird figures from mythology such as the Celtic death-goddess Morrigan, which often takes the form of a raven. When its life comes to an end, it absorbs the life energy of all living things and turns into a cocoon once more. We also turn into a cocoon by Friday. It stands 5.8 m tall.

#722

Rowlet

Rowlet, the Grass Quill Pokemon, is based on an owl, closest to the barn owls with their heart-shaped faces and dark eyes. It closely resembles the common barn owl, which was introduced to Hawaii, the region Alola was based on. The leaves on its chest may foreshadow Decidueye's archer-inspired design through a visual pun between a bow tie and an actual bow. It flies noiselessly on delicate wings, and it has mastered launching dagger-sharp feathers from those same wings. We should dress like a bow tie that turns out to be a weapon.

#723

Dartrix

Dartrix, the Blade Quill Pokemon, keeps the barn owl look, and the two leaves around its face may be inspired by the noticeable outer rim around the facial disc of the Hawaiian pueo owl. The strands of "hair" on it possibly evoke the leaves of a seedling. It regularly basks in sunlight to gather power, and the edges of the blade quills set into its wings are keen as ever. We would not interrupt a bird sunbathing with knives.

#724

Decidueye

Decidueye, the Arrow Quill Pokemon, resembles the pueo owl, which is a common physical form of the aumakua, ancestral spirits in Hawaiian culture. That may account for its Ghost type. It also shares elements with an archer and common depictions of Robin Hood. Hisuian Decidueye's hat-like crown of feathers resembles a kasa, a traditional Japanese brimmed hat. The air stored inside the shafts of its feathers insulates it against Hisui's extreme cold. We rely on a duvet for the same job. Its hidden ability, Long Reach, stops its moves from making contact (touching the target).

#731

Pikipek

Pikipek, the Woodpecker Pokemon, is based on a pileated woodpecker, and partly on a baby toco toucan, judging by its evolution into Trumbeak and Toucannon. It may look spindly, but its neck muscles are heavy-duty, and it can peck at a tree 16 times per second. We get a headache just thinking about it. It weighs 1.2 kg in total. Its Skill Link ability makes moves that hit two to five times always run to their full length.

#732

Trumbeak

Trumbeak, the Bugle Beak Pokemon, is based on a woodpecker, most likely a pileated or ivory-billed woodpecker. Its names reference trumpets, and its ability to change its call by bending its beak is similar to a trombone, which works by altering the length of the slide. It fires the seeds of berries it has eaten from its mouth, and the scattered seeds give rise to new plants. We have had worse hobbies than gardening by spitting.

#733

Toucannon

Toucannon, the Cannon Pokemon, is based on a toco toucan. It heats up its long bill and fires seeds, much like a cannon and cannonballs, and it may also draw on the fact that toucans use their bills to shed excess body heat. Its evolution from a woodpecker fits the fact that woodpeckers and toucans are both members of the Piciformes order of birds. It is known for forming harmonious couples and is brought to wedding ceremonies as a good luck charm. (We have been to wedding receptions with a cannon in the room.)

#741

Oricorio

Oricorio, the Dancing Pokemon, may be inspired by Hawaiian honeycreepers, especially the Iiwi. Honeycreepers feed on the nectar of various plants, and each species favors a specific flower that its beak is adapted to. Its four styles come from dance: the Baile Style refers to flamenco, the Pom-Pom Style to cheerleading, the Pa'u Style to hula and the Sensu Style to Japanese dance. The Baile Style has drunk red nectar, and this passionate Pokemon becomes fiercely angry if its Trainer gives the wrong order. We get the same way at restaurants and are working on it. Its Dancer ability copies any dance move another Pokemon uses, right after it.

#785

Tapu Koko

Tapu Koko, the Land Spirit Pokemon, has a mask that looks like a stylized rooster, and its overall design is similar to a tiki statue. It may be inspired by Kukailimoku, a Hawaiian god of war often represented by feathered idols, and as an Electric bird it likely also draws on the Thunderbird. It is the lightning-wielding guardian deity of Melemele, brimming with curiosity, and it appears before people from time to time. We would put the kettle on for a god who drops by out of curiosity.

#821

Rookidee

Rookidee, the Tiny Bird Pokemon, draws on birds such as chickadees and tits, likely the Eurasian blue tit and the great tit. These birds are not corvids like the ones behind its evolutions, though they are in the same order and were once considered to be corvids. It jumps nimbly about and takes advantage of even the slightest opportunity to disorient larger opponents. We have been described as small and annoying on purpose. It stands 0.2 m tall.

#822

Corvisquire

Corvisquire, the Raven Pokemon, may be based on a jackdaw or hooded crow, corvids found in Britain like ravens. Its blue color may be a reference to jays, especially the blue jay and Steller's jay. The lessons of many harsh battles have taught it how to accurately judge an opponent's strength. We can judge the length of a queue to the minute, which is a different skill. Its Unnerve ability stops opposing Pokemon from eating their held Berries.

#823

Corviknight

Corviknight, the Raven Pokemon, may be based on a raven, a carrion crow or the western jackdaw, all corvids commonly found in Great Britain, and its overall look may come from black knight characters from medieval settings. It may also draw on the Ravens of the Tower of London, a group of at least six ravens believed to protect the Crown and the Tower. These Pokemon very successfully act as the Galar region's airborne taxi service. We would tip a taxi that is also a knight. It stands 2.2 m tall, and its hidden ability, Mirror Armor, reflects any stat-lowering effects.

#845

Cramorant

Cramorant, the Gulp Pokemon, may be based on two seabirds of the British Isles: the cormorant and the fulmar, a bird that uses defensive vomiting to turn away predators. Its Gulp Missile ability, which catches prey when it uses Surf or Dive, may draw on cormorant fishing, an ancient technique that uses trained cormorants to fish and spit the fish up. It swallows Arrokuda whole, and it occasionally makes a mistake and tries to swallow a Pokemon other than its preferred prey. We have also misjudged a buffet. Its Shiny orange coloration may come from UK news stories about seagulls that turned orange after falling into curry sauce.

#865

Sirfetch'd

Sirfetch'd, the Wild Duck Pokemon, may be based on a knight and a Pekin duck, and its leek nods to Wales, where the leek is one of the national symbols. Its appearance may also be based on Sir Lancelot, known as the "White Knight" for his white armor before he revealed his identity to King Arthur. It deflects attacks with its hard leaf shield and strikes back with its sharp leek stalk, which is both weapon and food. (We would lose on day one with a sword we can eat.)

#875

Eiscue

Eiscue, the Penguin Pokemon, is a penguin with an ice cube for a head. It may also draw on the great auk, a flightless bird that lived on the coasts of the North Atlantic, including the British Isles, before its extinction. Like Eiscue, great auks floated with their heads exposed above water and were hunted for fish bait. It keeps its heat-sensitive head cool with ice and fishes by dangling its single hair into the sea to lure in prey. We cannot keep a hair tie for a day. Its Ice Face ability lets its ice head take a physical attack in its place, and the ice comes back when it snows.

#912

Quaxly

Quaxly, the Duckling Pokemon, is based on a duckling of the Crested domestic duck breed or the South American crested duck. Its crest resembles a beret, a turban or a pompadour, and it might also be a visual pun on the hairstyle called the ducktail. Its strong legs let it easily swim around in even fast-flowing rivers, and it likes to keep things tidy and is prone to overthinking things. We have only managed the overthinking.

#913

Quaxwell

Quaxwell, the Practicing Pokemon, may be based on a crested duck or goose and a ballet dancer. Its feathers and crest also look like a swim suit and a swim cap, which points to synchronized swimming, once known as "water ballet". The link between ducks and carnivals could date to ancient Rome, where the crested goose was a sacred animal of the goddess Juno. It observes people and Pokemon from various regions and incorporates their movements into its own dance routines. We would steal dance moves too, if we could find any.

#914

Quaquaval

Quaquaval, the Dancer Pokemon, may be primarily based on a peacock, with water feathers around its tail based on the bird's train, and on the Iberian red-knobbed coot, with whom it shares the lobed feet and the red head ornamentation. It also resembles the rainha de bateria dancer from the Rio Carnival in Brazil. It dances in ways that evoke far-away places, and flourishes of its decorative water feathers slice into its foes. Our own dancing is more of a hazard.

#931

Squawkabilly

Squawkabilly, the Parrot Pokemon, closely resembles the monk parakeet, an invasive species that forms large flocks in Spain. Madrid and other large Spanish cities have the largest populations of monk parakeets in Europe. The crest above its head resembles a pompadour, which fits the punk archetype. Green-feathered flocks hold the most sway, and it gets very noisy when they're out searching for food in the mornings and evenings. We would like a word with anything loud before breakfast.

#940

Wattrel

Wattrel, the Storm Petrel Pokemon, may be based on a storm petrel, and its electric side may be a play on the words "storm petrel", as lightning is usually present in storms. The shape of its head and eyes resembles an aviator hat. It makes its nests on coastal cliffs, and the nests have a strange, crackling texture and are a popular delicacy, a nod to the edible bird's nest enjoyed in the eastern parts of Asia. We will pass on the crackling nest.

#941

Kilowattrel

Kilowattrel, the Frigatebird Pokemon, has the hooked beak, angular wings, and forked tail of a frigatebird, and its throat sac resembles the gular sac found on male frigatebirds. It uses that sac to store electricity generated by its wings, and there is hardly any oil in its feathers, which makes it a poor swimmer. Real frigatebirds do not have waterproof feathers either. We are beach people who cannot tan, so we feel for it.

#951

Capsakid

Capsakid, the Spicy Pepper Pokemon, is mostly an immature chili pepper such as the habanero. It is here because it also resembles a newly hatched baby dinosaur or chick, with its white cap resembling a piece of egg shell. Traditional Paldean dishes can be extremely spicy because they include its shed front teeth. (We are not ordering the special.) Its arrival in Paldea may allude to Spain being the first European country to acquire the chili pepper.

#956

Espathra

Espathra, the Ostrich Pokemon, is based on an ostrich, and it also takes inspiration from the Egyptian queen Cleopatra. The mix of ostriches, psychic powers and Egyptian motifs may point to Maat, the personification of truth in ancient Egyptian mythology, whose symbol was the ostrich feather. It emits psychic power from the gaps between its multicolored frills and sprints at speeds greater than 120 mph. We sprint for the bus at a speed we will not share.

#962

Bombirdier

Bombirdier, the Item Drop Pokemon, is based on the white stork, which European folklore holds responsible for delivering babies by dropping them down chimneys. Its design plays with this: its apron and black-and-white plumage bring to mind a nanny, yet it drops various objects to attack instead. It uses the apron on its chest to bundle up food, and it enjoys dropping things that make loud noises. We drop loud things too and call it being tired.

#973

Flamigo

Flamigo, the Synchronize Pokemon, is based on a flamingo, and its Paldean origin may reference the fact that Spain has the largest flamingo population in Europe. Its knotted neck may be a nod to a balloon animal or a plastic flamingo lawn ornament. Its category and Fighting type may refer to the synchronized courtship dances of flamingos, which can take in a whole flock. A flock can attack simultaneously in perfect harmony thanks to this synchronizing. We cannot get a room to clap in time.

#1016

Fezandipiti

Fezandipiti, the Retainer Pokemon, may be based on the copper pheasant, a pheasant endemic to Japan and the prefectural bird of Akita in the Tohoku region, which Kitakami draws inspiration from. Its plumage resembles a kimono and its white face is reminiscent of oshiroi, which points to geisha. Since it is male-only, it may also hint at male kabuki performers who played female characters. It beats its glossy wings to scatter pheromones that captivate people and Pokemon. Our cologne has never captivated anyone.