Venomoth is a dual-type Bug/Poison Pokémon introduced in Generation I. This nocturnal creature is known for its distinctive purple coloration and moth-like appearance. Venomoth's wings are covered with dustlike scales that vary in color depending on their toxic capability. These scales are released when Venomoth flutters its wings, leaking out poison upon contact with skin. Interestingly, darker scales are more poisonous, while lighter scales can cause paralysis.
As a nocturnal hunter, Venomoth is particularly drawn to bright lights and prefers to feed on small insects that gather around streetlights. This Pokémon has a relatively short lifespan, as mentioned in the third chapter of Pokémon Adventures. Venomoth's favorite habitats are dense temperate forests with thick undergrowth and little light.
Venomoth has three pairs of tiny, whitish legs tucked close to its thorax, and its abdomen features several black, zigzagging stripes. Its eyes are bulbous, round, and light blue, complemented by a small mandible and a three-point crest on its head. The wings of Venomoth are often depicted as translucent in official artwork and various TCG cards.
Pokédex Data
- Height: 4'11" (1.5 m)
- Weight: 27.6 lbs (12.5 kg)
- Gender Ratio: 50% male, 50% female
- Egg Groups: Bug
- Catch Rate: 75
- Base Friendship: 70 (Generation II-VII), 50 (Generation VIII onwards)
Breeding
Venomoth belongs to the Bug egg group. It can breed with compatible Pokémon to produce Venonat eggs. The offspring will inherit moves from both parents through breeding.
Pokédex Entries Across Versions
- Red/Blue: "The dust-like scales covering its wings are color coded to indicate the kinds of poison it has."
- Yellow: "The powdery scales on its wings are hard to remove. They also contain poison that leaks out on contact."
- Gold: "When it attacks, it flaps its large wings violently to scatter its poisonous powder all around."
- Crystal: "The scales it scatters will paralyze anyone who touches them, making that person unable to stand."
- Ruby/Sapphire: "Venomoth is nocturnal - it is a Pokémon that only becomes active at night. Its favorite prey are small insects that gather around streetlights, attracted by the light in the darkness."
Evolutions
Venomoth evolves from Venonat starting at level 31. It does not evolve further.
Additions Across Generations
- Generation III: Venomoth gained the ability Shield Dust.
- Generation IV: Tinted Lens was added as a second ability.
- Generation V: Wonder Skin was introduced as Venomoth's hidden ability.
- Generation VI onwards: Venomoth's base friendship was changed from 70 to 50.