Golduck is a Water-type Pokémon introduced in Generation I. It evolves from Psyduck starting at level 33. This blue, bipedal duck-like Pokémon is known for its exceptional swimming abilities, being able to swim faster than any human swimming champion. Golduck has a distinctive red gem on its forehead that glows when it uses its psychic powers or swims at full speed. Its body is specially adapted for aquatic life, with webbed hands and feet, and a long tail used as a rudder for steering.
Golduck is often found near lakes, gently flowing rivers, and even rough seas. It's known to sometimes rescue people from shipwrecks, showcasing both its swimming prowess and altruistic nature. Interestingly, old tales claim that Golduck punishes those who defile its rivers by dragging them in and taking them away. The Pokémon's forehead gem was once believed to grant supernatural powers, leading to overhunting in the past.
In battle, Golduck can use a combination of Water-type moves and psychic abilities. It's capable of shooting massive jets of water from both hands simultaneously, using them to propel itself underwater. Golduck is also known to paddle its webbed limbs while sleeping, possibly dreaming about swimming.
Pokédex Data
- Category: Duck Pokémon
- Height: 5'7" (1.7m)
- Weight: 168.9 lbs (76.6 kg)
- Abilities: Damp, Cloud Nine, Swift Swim (Hidden)
Breeding
- Gender Ratio: 50% Male, 50% Female
- Egg Groups: Water 1, Field
Pokédex Entries Across Versions
- Sword: This Pokémon lives in gently flowing rivers. It paddles through the water with its long limbs, putting its graceful swimming skills on display.
- Shield: Old tales tell of Golduck punishing those that defiled its river. The guilty were dragged into the water and taken away.
- Brilliant Diamond: This Pokémon lives in lakes. It swims faster than any world-class swimmer.
- Shining Pearl: The flippers of its well-developed limbs give it shocking speed. It is the best swimmer among Pokémon.
Evolutions
Psyduck evolves into Golduck at level 33.
Habits and Additions Across Generations
Golduck's habitat and behavior have been consistent across generations, always being associated with water bodies. In newer games, its psychic abilities have been more emphasized, with the glowing forehead gem becoming a key feature. The Pokémon's swimming abilities and rescue behavior have been highlighted more in recent Pokédex entries. In Pokémon Legends: Arceus, it was noted that Golduck can swim easily through rough seas, clawing its way through high waves.