Nidoran♂ is a small, rabbit-based Pokémon with large ears, whiskers and front teeth. They are covered with spines primarily on their back which can release potent poisons if Nidoran♂ is threatened. Nidoran♂ have a larger forehead horn than their female counterparts, Nidoran♀.
Gender differences
Nidoran♂ is the male of the species, and is noted to be one of the first Pokémon to denote gender differences. In the later generations, however, Pokémon with genders are marked with a ♀ or ♂ symbol, rather than being actual different Pokémon.
Compare with Nidoran♀. Note how the female Nidoran has a smaller horn and fewer spines, as well as a different color.
Special abilities
Its large horns can Template:A2, unlike its female counterpart, the size of the horns is indicative of the strength of the venom. It also has unique muscles around its ears, which permit them to be moved in any direction.
Behavior
Nidoran♂ are fairly docile Pokémon, although they tend to be more alert and nervous than their female counterparts, constantly listening for the sounds of approaching enemies with their large ears. Their potent venom is used primarily as a defense, and most likely evolved to counteract their small body size.
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.
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.
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Nidoran was the first Pokémon to feature gender, and even gender differences; however, their difference is much greater than later Pokémon.
Despite the addition of genders in all Pokémon starting in Generation II, the two variations of Nidoran remained separate species, rather than a singular species that splits down different evolution paths based on gender.
Nidoran and Nidorino share the same species name with their female counterparts Nidoran♀ and Nidorina. They are all known as Poison Pin Pokémon.
Origin
Nidoran♂ appears to be based on a rabbit or mouse.
Name origin
Nidoran♂'s name may be based on the word needle. It may also be based from the word cnidarian which are stinging animals. Alternatively, it may be based on 二 ni, two, or 二度 nido, two times/two degrees, referring to there being two distinct evolutionary lines using the name with similar names and traits. The ♂ in its name is an indication of its male gender.
This Pokémon article is part of Project Pokédex, a Bulbapedia project that aims to write comprehensive articles on each Pokémon species, as well as Pokémon groups and forms.
For other sprites and images, please see Nidoran♂ images on Bulbagarden Archives.
