Nidoran♂ is a small, quadrupedal, mammalian Pokémon introduced in Generation I. It is pinkish purple with darker patches and has large, spiny ears with teal insides. Its back is covered with three lines of large spines that can release potent poisons if threatened. The size of the long, pointed horn on its forehead is indicative of the strength of its venom. Nidoran♂ is known for its highly developed muscles that allow it to move its ears freely in any direction, enabling it to detect even the slightest sounds. This Pokémon is brave and will risk its own life to protect Nidoran♀. Nidoran♂ is a male-only species, which is unique among Pokémon.
Pokédex Data
- Type: Poison
- Species: Poison Pin Pokémon
- Height: 0.5 m (1'08")
- Weight: 9.0 kg (19.8 lbs)
- Abilities: Poison Point, Rivalry, Hustle (Hidden)
Breeding
- Egg Groups: Field, Monster
- Gender: 100% male
- Egg cycles: 20 (4,884–5,140 steps)
Pokédex Entries Across Versions
- Shield: Small but brave, this Pokémon will hold its ground and even risk its life in battle to protect the female it's friendly with.
- X: It scans its surroundings by raising its ears out of the grass. Its toxic horn is for protection.
- Ruby/Sapphire: The male Nidoran has developed muscles for moving its ears. Thanks to them, the ears can be freely moved in any direction. Even the slightest sound does not escape this Pokémon's notice.
Evolutions
Nidoran♂ evolves into Nidorino at level 16, which then evolves into Nidoking when exposed to a Moon Stone.
Habits
Nidoran♂ constantly listens for the sounds of approaching enemies with its large ears. When angry, it extends its toxic spikes and charges, stabbing with its horn to inject poison. It lives in open spaces, such as savannas and plains.
Additions Across Generations
In Generation 3, Nidoran♂ gained the Rivalry ability. Its hidden ability, Hustle, was introduced later. The base experience yield and base friendship values have changed across generations. Despite the addition of genders to other Pokémon, Nidoran♂ remains a separate species from Nidoran♀, rather than a singular species with different evolution paths based on gender.