Zapdos (Pokémon)

(Redirected from Zapdos)
For Pokémon GO information on this species, see the game's section.
0144MS.png #0144: Articuno
Pokémon
#0146: Moltres 0146MS.png
This article is about the species. For a specific instance of this species, see Zapdos (disambiguation).
Zapdos
Electric Pokémon
Strong Legs Pokémon
サンダー
Thunder
#0145
Zapdos
Zapdos
Galarian Zapdos
Galarian Zapdos



Images on the Bulbagarden Archives
Types
Electric Flying
Zapdos
Fighting Flying
Galarian Zapdos
Unknown Unknown
Unknown Unknown
Unknown Unknown
Unknown Unknown
Abilities
Pressure
Zapdos
Defiant
Galarian Zapdos
Cacophony
Static
Gen VI+ Zapdos Hidden Ability
Cacophony
Hidden Ability
Cacophony
Galarian Zapdos
Cacophony
Lightning Rod
Gen V* Zapdos Hidden Ability
Gender ratio
Gender unknown
Catch rate
3 (1.6%)
Breeding
Egg Group
No Eggs Discovered
Hatch time
80 cycles
Egg not obtainable
Height
5'03" 1.6 m
Zapdos
0'0" 0 m
Galarian Zapdos
0'0" 0 m
{{{form3}}}
0'0" 0 m
{{{form4}}}
Weight
116.0 lbs. 52.6 kg
Zapdos
128.3 lbs. 58.2 kg
Galarian Zapdos
0 lbs. 0 kg
{{{form3}}}
0 lbs. 0 kg
{{{form4}}}
Mega Stone
[[|]] [[|]]
Base experience yield
216
Gen. I-IV
Unknown
IV
261
V+
Leveling rate
Slow
EV yield
Total: 3
Zapdos
0
HP
0
Atk
0
Def
3
Sp.Atk
0
Sp.Def
0
Speed
Galarian Zapdos
0
HP
3
Atk
0
Def
0
Sp.Atk
0
Sp.Def
0
Speed
0
HP
0
Atk
0
Def
0
Sp.Atk
0
Sp.Def
0
Speed
0
HP
0
Atk
0
Def
0
Sp.Atk
0
Sp.Def
0
Speed
Shape
Body09.png
Footprint
F0145.png F000.png
Galarian Zapdos
Pokédex color
Yellow
Base friendship
35
External Links

Zapdos (Japanese: サンダー Thunder) is a dual-type Electric/Flying Legendary Pokémon introduced in Generation I.

In Galar, Zapdos has a dual-type Fighting/Flying regional form, introduced in The Crown Tundra expansion. Neither Kantonian Zapdos nor Galarian Zapdos are known to evolve into or from any other Pokémon.

Along with Articuno and Moltres, it is one of the three legendary birds of Kanto.

Biology

Zapdos is a large, avian Pokémon with predominantly yellow plumage. It has small, triangular eyes with black around them and a long, thin, light orange beak. Its wings and tail are a mass of spiky feathers and there are black feathers covering the back of its wings and inner tail feathers. A large crest of spiked feathers surrounds its head. Its thighs are tan, and it has thin, light orange legs. It has feet with three forward-facing toes and one backward-facing toe; each toe has a short talon.

When Zapdos flaps its glittering wings, it releases electricity that can potentially cause thunderstorms. It produces massive crackling and snapping sounds when it flies; these are attributed to the lightning bolts it sheds when airborne. Zapdos reportedly appears only during thunderstorms and gains power when struck by lightning. It is said to live among thunderclouds, but it is rarely seen. Zapdos loves Zapdos Treats made by Snacksworth, who once saw it fly right by him in the past.

Zapdos is the only known Pokémon capable of learning the move Shadow Bolt.

Forms

Zapdos has a regional form: Galarian Zapdos.

In Galar, Zapdos has a different appearance. Its body is red-orange with black plumage. Its head features yellow eyes with more pronounced, mask-like black coloration around them, a shorter black beak, and a longer, more visible neck. Its legs are black, longer, and more muscular, its thigh feathers are also black, and its talons are yellow with red rings at their bases. Its red-orange wings are smaller, with small black markings that appear to be remnants of its Kantonian counterpart's black plumage. Finally, it has a row of spiky feathers along its chest, and a similar row of black feathers on its back.

Belligerent by nature and ever thirsting for battle, Galarian Zapdos seeks out opponents stronger than itself so it could test its might. Its powerful legs allow it to perform devastating kicks capable of destroying a dump truck, and it can run across mountains at up to 180 mph (300 km/h). Its wings have atrophied to the point that it can barely fly, but its movements are so swift that they have been compared to a lightning strike. This Pokémon earned the name of its Kantonian counterpart due to the electric-like crackling sounds that come from its feathers rubbing together. It is constantly migrating around the world but can be found in the Crown Tundra once every few decades congregating with the other birds at the Dyna Tree to eat its fruits.[1]

Galarian Zapdos is the only known Pokémon capable of learning the move Thunderous Kick.

In the anime

Main series

 
Zapdos in the anime

Major appearances

Zapdos (M02)

Zapdos debuted in The Power of One, where Lawrence III sought it, along with the other two legendary birds and their master, Lugia, for his own personal collection.

Other

Zapdos made its physical main series debut in As Clear As Crystal, where it intercepted Team Rocket in their attempt to steal a crystal that gave a lake the ability to heal Electric-type Pokémon. As a result, they changed their objective to capture Zapdos instead.

In The Mastermind of Mirage Pokémon, the Mirage Master briefly used a Mirage Zapdos.

In An Electrifying Rage!, Ash and his friends witnessed a Zapdos flying across the sky. Team Rocket later made an attempt to capture the Zapdos, which infuriated it, forcing Ash to battle it with Talonflame, Hawlucha, and the newly-evolved Noivern. When Team Rocket continued their attempt, Noivern and Pikachu helped save Zapdos and calm it down.

In A Crackling Raid Battle!, a Zapdos caused power outages in Vermilion City. Ash and Goh encountered it at the Kanto Power Plant and had a Raid Battle against it with the assistance of Team Rocket. Goh was able to weaken it with his Raboot and Flygon, but he wasn't able to catch it like he had hoped.

Minor appearances

Zapdos made its main series debut in Team Rocket's fantasy in An EGG-sighting Adventure!.

In the ending credits of Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea, Jackie captured a Zapdos with his Capture Styler and flew away on its back.

In Doc Brock!, a Zapdos roamed around Sinnoh.

In a flashback in Dealing With a Fierce Double Ditto Drama!, Narissa's Ditto transformed into a Zapdos, intimidating a potential opponent.

A Zapdos appeared in the opening sequence of Lucario and the Mystery of Mew.

In the opening sequence of The Rise of Darkrai, a Zapdos was flying across the sky.

A Zapdos appeared in the opening sequence of Zoroark: Master of Illusions.

A Zapdos appeared in I Choose You!.

A silhouetted Zapdos appeared in a fantasy in Healing the Healer!.

A shadowed Zapdos appeared in This Could be the Start of Something Big!.

Pokédex entries

Episode Pokémon Source Entry
EP242 Zapdos Ash's Pokédex Zapdos, the Electric Pokémon. Zapdos has both Electric and Flying elements, and the flappage of its wings can create lightning.
Episode Pokémon Source Entry
JN040 Zapdos Goh's Rotom Phone Zapdos, the Electric Pokémon. An Electric and Flying type. It is said Zapdos can be found inside thunderclouds and that it can control lightning. A Legendary Pokémon.

Pokémon Origins

A Zapdos briefly appeared in File 3: Giovanni, as part of the explanation of the Master Ball's capabilities.

In File 4: Charizard, Red caught a Zapdos in the Power Plant.

Pokémon Generations

In The Adventure, a wild Zapdos briefly flew by during a battle between Red's Pikachu and a wild Caterpie.

GOTCHA!

A Zapdos briefly appeared as a silhouette in GOTCHA!.

Pokémon: Twilight Wings

In The Gathering of Stars, a Galarian Zapdos was seen in the Crown Tundra.

In the manga

 
Galarian Zapdos in Pokémon Adventures

Movie adaptations

Main article: Zapdos (M02)

Zapdos appeared in the manga adaptation of The Power of One.

Zapdos also appeared in the graphic novel adaptation of the same movie.

Pokémon Journeys: The Series

A Zapdos appeared in A Crackling Raid Battle!.

Pocket Monsters DP

A Zapdos appeared in PMDP11.

Pocket Monsters HGSS Jō's Big Adventure

A Zapdos appeared as a silhouette in JBA5.

Pokémon Adventures

Main article: Zapdos (Adventures)
Spoiler warning: this article may contain major plot or ending details.

In Holy Moltres, Team Rocket Commander Lt. Surge caught Zapdos at the abandoned Power Plant. He later used it as an infinite source of electricity for his Pokémon while battling Red at Silph Co. Red managed to defeat Surge by using Saur's Razor Leaf to cut his insulation suit, causing Zapdos to unintentionally shock him unconscious. Zapdos was later merged with Articuno and Moltres into a combination Pokémon that was defeated by Red, Blue, and Green, causing it to split up again and freeing the legendary birds.

Green later caught Zapdos before the Gold, Silver & Crystal arc as a part of overcoming her fear of birds. She used it and the other legendary birds to battle Lugia and Ho-Oh in Ilex Forest.

  Spoilers end here.  

A Galarian Zapdos first appeared in PASS36.

Pokémon Battrio: Aim to be Battrio Master!

A Zapdos appeared in ABM01.

Pokémon Gotta Catch 'Em All

A Zapdos appeared in GDZ74.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Ginji's Rescue Team

A Zapdos appeared in I Want to be Human Again!. It reappeared in a flashback in Why I Became a Pokémon. The Answer Finally Revealed!!.

Pokémon Pocket Monsters

Zapdos debuted in Regain the Deserted Power Plant!.

A Zapdos appeared in Get Lugia!.

Pokémon Zensho

A silhouette of a Zapdos appeared in PZ07.

In the TCG

Main article: Zapdos (TCG)

Other appearances

Super Smash Bros. Melee

When released from a Poké Ball, Zapdos uses a powerful Thunder Shock that hits opponents several times to produce a substantial amount of damage.

Trophy information

Zapdos flaps its wings, and summer storms appear, throwing lightning every which way. It's said that you can hear this legendary Pokémon coming, as its wings make a very distinctive popping sound as it flies. In addition to electrical moves like the dreaded Thunder, it also wields a vicious move called Drill Peck.

Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS

Zapdos appears in the background of the Prism Tower stage in the 3DS version of the game.

 
Zapdos trophy in Super Smash Bros. for 3DS

Zapdos also appears as a trophy in the 3DS game.

Trophy information

NA: Gazing up at dark storm clouds gathering in the sky, many children must have once wondered if the Pokémon they saw in the second Pokémon movie was in the clouds. An innocent and childish dream, perhaps... but even today as adults, the sound of thunder might just bring back memories of this Legendary bird Pokémon.

PAL: Gazing up at dark storm clouds gathering in the sky, many children must once have wondered if the Pokémon they just saw in the latest movie was lurking somewhere in their depths. An innocent and childish dream, perhaps...but even today as adults, the sound of thunder might just bring back memories of this Legendary Bird Pokémon.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Along with returning in the background of Prism Tower, Zapdos appears as a Spirit alongside Articuno and Moltres.

Game data

NPC appearances

  • Zapdos is the first Legendary Pokémon encountered in Pokémon Mystery Dungeon. After it kidnaps Shiftry, the player must fight it at the top of Mt. Thunder. It is possible to recruit Zapdos by returning for another fight after the credits.

Pokédex entries

Generation I Kanto
#145
Red(JPN) (This entry was originally untranslated in English until it was reused in Pokémon FireRed.)
Green
Red(ENG) A legendary bird Pokémon that is said to appear from clouds while dropping enormous lightning bolts.
Blue
Yellow This legendary bird Pokémon is said to appear when the sky turns dark and lightning showers down.
Stadium A legendary bird Pokémon that appears with a gigantic thunder storm. It flies with the buzz and crack of electricity.
Generation II Johto
#236
Gold This legendary bird Pokémon causes savage thunderstorms by flapping its glittering wings.
Silver This legendary bird Pokémon is said to appear only when a thundercloud parts into two halves.
Crystal Legendary bird Pokémon. They say lightning caused by the flapping of its wings causes summer storms.
Stadium 2 This legendary bird Pokémon cause savage thunderstorms by flapping its glittering wings.
Generation III Hoenn
#—
Kanto
#145
Ruby Zapdos is a legendary bird Pokémon that has the ability to control electricity. It usually lives in thunderclouds. The Pokémon gains power if it is stricken by lightning bolts.
Sapphire
Emerald Zapdos is a legendary bird Pokémon that has the ability to control electricity. It usually lives in thunderclouds. It gains power if it is stricken by lightning bolts.
FireRed One of the legendary bird Pokémon. While it is flying, it makes crackling and snapping sounds.
LeafGreen A legendary bird Pokémon that is said to appear from clouds while dropping enormous lightning bolts.
Generation IV Sinnoh
#—
Johto
#241
Diamond A legendary Pokémon that is said to live inside thunder clouds. It can freely control thunder.
Pearl
Platinum A legendary Pokémon that is said to live in thunderclouds. It freely controls lightning bolts.
HeartGold This legendary bird Pokémon cause savage thunderstorms by flapping its glittering wings.
SoulSilver This legendary bird Pokémon is said to appear only when a thundercloud parts into two halves.
Generation V Unova
#—
Black A legendary Pokémon that is said to live in thunderclouds. It freely controls lightning bolts.
White
Black 2 A legendary Pokémon that is said to live in thunderclouds. It freely controls lightning bolts.
White 2
Generation VI Kalos
Coastal #152
Hoenn
#—
X A legendary bird Pokémon that is said to appear from clouds while dropping enormous lightning bolts.
Y A legendary Pokémon that is said to live in thunderclouds. It freely controls lightning bolts.
Omega Ruby Zapdos is a legendary bird Pokémon that has the ability to control electricity. It usually lives in thunderclouds. The Pokémon gains power if it is stricken by lightning bolts.
Alpha Sapphire
Generation VII Alola
#—
Kanto
#145
This Pokémon has no Pokédex entries in Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon.
Let's Go Pikachu This legendary bird Pokémon is said to appear when the sky turns dark and lightning showers down.
Let's Go Eevee
Generation VIII Galar
Crown Tundra #203
Sinnoh
#—
Hisui
#—
This Pokémon has no Pokédex entries in Legends: Arceus.
Sword This Pokémon has complete control over electricity. There are tales of Zapdos nesting in the dark depths of pitch-black thunderclouds.
Shield Zapdos is a legendary bird Pokémon. It's said that when Zapdos rubs its feathers together, lightning will fall immediately after.
Brilliant Diamond This legendary Pokémon is said to live in thunderclouds. It freely controls lightning bolts.
Shining Pearl
Galarian Zapdos
Sword When its feathers rub together, they produce a crackling sound like the zapping of electricity. That's why this Pokémon is called Zapdos.
Shield One kick from its powerful legs will pulverize a dump truck. Supposedly, this Pokémon runs through the mountains at over 180 mph.
Generation IX Paldea
#—
Kitakami
#—
Blueberry
#—
This Pokémon has no Pokédex entries in Generation IX.


Game locations

Generation I
Red Blue
Power Plant (Only one)
Blue (Japan)
Power Plant (Only one)
Yellow
Power Plant (Only one)
Generation II
Gold Silver
Time Capsule, Event
Crystal
Time Capsule, Event
Generation III
Ruby Sapphire
Trade
Emerald
Trade
FireRed LeafGreen
Power Plant (Only one)
Colosseum
Trade
XD
Citadark Isle (Shadow)
Generation IV
Diamond Pearl
Trade
Platinum
Roaming Sinnoh (Only one)
HeartGold SoulSilver
Route 10* (Only one)
Pal Park
Mountain
Generation V
Black White
Poké Transfer
Black 2 White 2
Poké Transfer
Generation VI
X Y
Sea Spirit's Den* (Only one) (if the player chose Fennekin)
Omega Ruby Alpha Sapphire
Trade
Generation VII
Sun Moon
Trade
Ultra Sun Ultra Moon
Ultra Space Wilds (Cliff World) (Only one)
Let's Go Pikachu Let's Go Eevee
Power Plant (Only one)
Routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25
Generation VIII
Sword Shield
TradeVersion 1.3.0+
Expansion Pass
Max Lair (Dynamax Adventure) (Only one) (Kantonian Form)
Roaming Wild Area (Only one) (Galarian Form)
Brilliant Diamond
Trade (Kantonian Form)
Unobtainable (Galarian Form)
Shining Pearl
Ramanas Park (Kanto Room) (requires Kanto Slate) (Only one) (Kantonian Form)
Unobtainable (Galarian Form)
Legends: Arceus
Unobtainable
Generation IX
Scarlet Violet
Trade (Kantonian Form)
Pokémon HOME (Galarian Form)
The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero
South Province: Area One after receiving the Zapdos Treat from Snacksworth (Only one) (Solo Quest) (Kantonian Form)


In side games

Generation I
Snap
Tunnel
Pinball
Red Field: Lavender Town
Generation II
This Pokémon is unavailable in Generation II side games.
Generation III
Trozei!
Random Agent Cards, Mr. Who's Den
MD Red MD Blue
Mt. Thunder Peak (3F)
Generation IV
MD Time MD Darkness
Amp Plains (7F)
MD Sky
Amp Plains (7F)
Rumble
Eternal Tower (Normal Mode S)
Ranger: GS
Layuda Island
Generation V
Rumble Blast
Factory: World Axle - B2F (post-ending)
Rumble U
Aquatic Hill: The Floors Are Hot! (Reward), Verdant Plaza: Battle Royale
Generation VI
Battle Trozei
Mountain of Order: Stage 5
Rumble World
Fairy Land: Ancient Stronghold (Special Boss)
Super MD
Yellow Point
Picross
Area 20: Stage 13
Generation VII
Rumble Rush
Zapdos Sea, Castform Sea, Bulbasaur Sea, Greninja Sea, Charizard SeaFinal
Generation VIII
MD DX
Mt. Thunder (13F)
Cross-Generation
Shuffle
Expert Stage: Stage EX5
Masters EX
Master Fair sync pair scout: Hop (Champion) & Zapdos (Galarian Form), Blue (Champion) & Zapdos (Kantonian Form)


In events

Zapdos
Games Event Language/Region Location Level Distribution period
GSC Gotta Catch 'Em All Station! Zapdos English United States 50  November 30 to December 20, 2001;
February 15 to 21, 2002
RSEFRLG Journey Across America Zapdos English United States 70 February 25 to July 23, 2006
RSEFRLG Party of the Decade Zapdos English United States 70 August 8, 2006
XYORAS Pokémon Scrap Zapdos Japanese region Online 70 March 1 to August 31, 2016
XYORAS Aldora Zapdos PAL region Online 70 March 11 to September 30, 2016
ORAS Movie Zapdos Korean region Online 70 May 2 to July 31, 2016
XYORAS Aldora Zapdos American region Online 70 May 3 to August 31, 2016
Galarian Zapdos
Games Event Language/Region Location Level Distribution period
SwSh Wild Area's Shiny Galarian Zapdos All Online 70  March 14, 2022 onwards

Held Items

Game Held Item(s)
Red* Blue*   BrightPowder (100%)
Yellow*

Stats

Base stats

Zapdos
Stat Range
At Lv. 50 At Lv. 100
90
150 - 197 290 - 384
90
85 - 156 166 - 306
85
81 - 150 157 - 295
125
117 - 194 229 - 383
90
85 - 156 166 - 306
100
94 - 167 184 - 328
Total:
580
Other Pokémon with this total
  • Minimum stats are calculated with 0 EVs, IVs of 0, and (if applicable) a hindering nature.
  • Maximum stats are calculated with 252 EVs, IVs of 31, and (if applicable) a helpful nature.
  • This Pokémon's Special base stat in Generation I was 125.
Galarian Zapdos
Stat Range
At Lv. 50 At Lv. 100
90
150 - 197 290 - 384
125
117 - 194 229 - 383
90
85 - 156 166 - 306
85
81 - 150 157 - 295
90
85 - 156 166 - 306
100
94 - 167 184 - 328
Total:
580
Other Pokémon with this total
  • Minimum stats are calculated with 0 EVs, IVs of 0, and (if applicable) a hindering nature.
  • Maximum stats are calculated with 252 EVs, IVs of 31, and (if applicable) a helpful nature.

Pokéathlon stats

Speed
5/5 ★★★★★
Power
3/5 ★★★☆☆
Skill
4/5 ★★★★
Stamina
2/3 ★★
Jump
5/5 ★★★★★
Total
19/23 ★★★


Type effectiveness

Zapdos

Under normal battle conditions in Generation IX, this Pokémon is:
Damaged
normally by:
Normal
Fighting ½×
Flying ½×
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug ½×
Ghost
Steel ½×
Fire
Water
Grass ½×
Electric
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark
Fairy
None
Weak to:
Normal
Fighting ½×
Flying ½×
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug ½×
Ghost
Steel ½×
Fire
Water
Grass ½×
Electric
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark
Fairy
None
Immune to:
Normal
Fighting ½×
Flying ½×
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug ½×
Ghost
Steel ½×
Fire
Water
Grass ½×
Electric
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark
Fairy
None
Resistant to:
Normal
Fighting ½×
Flying ½×
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug ½×
Ghost
Steel ½×
Fire
Water
Grass ½×
Electric
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark
Fairy
None
Notes:

Galarian Zapdos

Under normal battle conditions in Generation IX, this Pokémon is:
Damaged
normally by:
Normal
Fighting ½×
Flying
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug ¼×
Ghost
Steel
Fire
Water
Grass ½×
Electric
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark ½×
Fairy
None
Weak to:
Normal
Fighting ½×
Flying
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug ¼×
Ghost
Steel
Fire
Water
Grass ½×
Electric
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark ½×
Fairy
None
Immune to:
Normal
Fighting ½×
Flying
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug ¼×
Ghost
Steel
Fire
Water
Grass ½×
Electric
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark ½×
Fairy
None
Resistant to:
Normal
Fighting ½×
Flying
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug ¼×
Ghost
Steel
Fire
Water
Grass ½×
Electric
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark ½×
Fairy
None
Notes:

Learnset

By leveling up

Zapdos
Generation IX
Other generations:
I - II - III - IV - V - VI - VII - VIII
 Level   Move   Type   Cat.   Pwr.   Acc.   PP
011 Peck Flying Physical 03535 100100% 35
011 Thunder Wave Electric Status 0000 09090% 20
055 Thunder Shock Electric Special 04040 100100% 30
1010 Light Screen Psychic Status 0000 00——% 30
1515 Pluck Flying Physical 06060 100100% 20
2020 Agility Psychic Status 0000 00——% 30
2525 Ancient Power Rock Special 06060 100100% 5
3030 Charge Electric Status 0000 00——% 20
3535 Drill Peck Flying Physical 08080 100100% 20
4040 Roost Flying Status 0000 00——% 5
4545 Discharge Electric Special 08080 100100% 15
5050 Rain Dance Water Status 0000 00——% 5
5555 Thunder Electric Special 110110 07070% 10
6060 Detect Fighting Status 0000 00——% 5
6565 Magnetic Flux Electric Status 0000 00——% 20
7070 Zap Cannon Electric Special 120120 05050% 5
  • Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Zapdos
  • Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an evolution of Zapdos
  • Click on the generation numbers at the top to see level-up moves from other generations
Galarian Zapdos
Generation IX
Other generations:
VIII
 Level   Move   Type   Cat.   Pwr.   Acc.   PP
011 Peck Flying Physical 03535 100100% 35
011 Focus Energy Normal Status 0000 00——% 30
055 Rock Smash Fighting Physical 04040 100100% 15
1010 Light Screen Psychic Status 0000 00——% 30
1515 Pluck Flying Physical 06060 100100% 20
2020 Agility Psychic Status 0000 00——% 30
2525 Ancient Power Rock Special 06060 100100% 5
3030 Brick Break Fighting Physical 07575 100100% 15
3535 Drill Peck Flying Physical 08080 100100% 20
4040 Quick Guard Fighting Status 0000 00——% 15
4545 Thunderous Kick Fighting Physical 09090 100100% 10
5050 Bulk Up Fighting Status 0000 00——% 20
5555 Counter Fighting Physical 0000 100100% 20
6060 Detect Fighting Status 0000 00——% 5
6565 Close Combat Fighting Physical 120120 100100% 5
7070 Reversal Fighting Physical 0000 100100% 15
  • Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Zapdos
  • Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an evolution of Zapdos

By TM

Zapdos
Generation IX
Other generations:
I - II - III - IV - V - VI - VII - VIII
   TM   Move   Type   Cat.   Pwr.   Acc.   PP 
TM001  TM001 Take Down Normal Physical 09090 085}}85% 20
TM004  TM004 Agility Psychic Status 0000 00—}}—% 30
TM007  TM007 Protect Normal Status 0000 00—}}—% 10
TM014  TM014 Acrobatics Flying Physical 05555 100}}100% 15
TM025  TM025 Facade Normal Physical 07070 100}}100% 20
TM027  TM027 Aerial Ace Flying Physical 06060 00—}}—% 20
TM032  TM032 Swift Normal Special 06060 00—}}—% 20
TM040  TM040 Air Cutter Flying Special 06060 095}}95% 25
TM047  TM047 Endure Normal Status 0000 00—}}—% 10
TM048  TM048 Volt Switch Electric Special 07070 100}}100% 20
TM049  TM049 Sunny Day Fire Status 0000 00—}}—% 5
TM050  TM050 Rain Dance Water Status 0000 00—}}—% 5
TM051  TM051 Sandstorm Rock Status 0000 00—}}—% 10
TM060  TM060 U-turn Bug Physical 07070 100}}100% 20
TM070  TM070 Sleep Talk Normal Status 0000 00—}}—% 10
TM072  TM072 Electro Ball Electric Special 0000 100}}100% 10
TM075  TM075 Light Screen Psychic Status 0000 00—}}—% 30
TM082  TM082 Thunder Wave Electric Status 0000 090}}90% 20
TM085  TM085 Rest Psychic Status 0000 00—}}—% 5
TM096  TM096 Eerie Impulse Electric Status 0000 100}}100% 15
TM097  TM097 Fly Flying Physical 09090 095}}95% 15
TM103  TM103 Substitute Normal Status 0000 00—}}—% 10
TM113  TM113 Tailwind Flying Status 0000 00—}}—% 15
TM118  TM118 Heat Wave Fire Special 09595 090}}90% 10
TM126  TM126 Thunderbolt Electric Special 09090 100}}100% 15
TM130  TM130 Helping Hand Normal Status 0000 00—}}—% 20
TM132  TM132 Baton Pass Normal Status 0000 00—}}—% 40
TM136  TM136 Electric Terrain Electric Status 0000 00—}}—% 10
TM147  TM147 Wild Charge Electric Physical 09090 100}}100% 15
TM152  TM152 Giga Impact Normal Physical 150150 090}}90% 5
TM160  TM160 Hurricane Flying Special 110110 070}}70% 10
TM163  TM163 Hyper Beam Normal Special 150150 090}}90% 5
TM164  TM164 Brave Bird Flying Physical 120120 100}}100% 15
TM166  TM166 Thunder Electric Special 110110 070}}70% 10
TM171  TM171 Tera Blast Normal Special 08080 100}}100% 10
TM173  TM173 Charge Electric Status 0000 00—}}—% 20
TM193  TM193 Weather Ball Normal Special 05050 100}}100% 10
TM197  TM197 Dual Wingbeat Flying Physical 04040 090}}90% 10
TM210  TM210 Supercell Slam Electric Physical 100100 095}}95% 15
TM223  TM223 Metal Sound Steel Status 0000 085}}85% 40
  • Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Zapdos
  • Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an evolution or an alternate form of Zapdos
  • Click on the generation numbers at the top to see TM moves from other generations
Galarian Zapdos
Generation IX
Other generations:
VIII
   TM   Move   Type   Cat.   Pwr.   Acc.   PP 
TM001  TM001 Take Down Normal Physical 09090 085}}85% 20
TM004  TM004 Agility Psychic Status 0000 00—}}—% 30
TM006  TM006 Scary Face Normal Status 0000 100}}100% 10
TM007  TM007 Protect Normal Status 0000 00—}}—% 10
TM012  TM012 Low Kick Fighting Physical 0000 100}}100% 20
TM014  TM014 Acrobatics Flying Physical 05555 100}}100% 15
TM020  TM020 Trailblaze Grass Physical 05050 100}}100% 20
TM025  TM025 Facade Normal Physical 07070 100}}100% 20
TM027  TM027 Aerial Ace Flying Physical 06060 00—}}—% 20
TM032  TM032 Swift Normal Special 06060 00—}}—% 20
TM039  TM039 Low Sweep Fighting Physical 06565 100}}100% 20
TM047  TM047 Endure Normal Status 0000 00—}}—% 10
TM049  TM049 Sunny Day Fire Status 0000 00—}}—% 5
TM050  TM050 Rain Dance Water Status 0000 00—}}—% 5
TM051  TM051 Sandstorm Rock Status 0000 00—}}—% 10
TM058  TM058 Brick Break Fighting Physical 07575 100}}100% 15
TM060  TM060 U-turn Bug Physical 07070 100}}100% 20
TM064  TM064 Bulk Up Fighting Status 0000 00—}}—% 20
TM070  TM070 Sleep Talk Normal Status 0000 00—}}—% 10
TM075  TM075 Light Screen Psychic Status 0000 00—}}—% 30
TM084  TM084 Stomping Tantrum Ground Physical 07575 100}}100% 10
TM085  TM085 Rest Psychic Status 0000 00—}}—% 5
TM087  TM087 Taunt Dark Status 0000 100}}100% 20
TM097  TM097 Fly Flying Physical 09090 095}}95% 15
TM103  TM103 Substitute Normal Status 0000 00—}}—% 10
TM113  TM113 Tailwind Flying Status 0000 00—}}—% 15
TM130  TM130 Helping Hand Normal Status 0000 00—}}—% 20
TM134  TM134 Reversal Fighting Physical 0000 100}}100% 15
TM152  TM152 Giga Impact Normal Physical 150150 090}}90% 5
TM160  TM160 Hurricane Flying Special 110110 070}}70% 10
TM163  TM163 Hyper Beam Normal Special 150150 090}}90% 5
TM164  TM164 Brave Bird Flying Physical 120120 100}}100% 15
TM167  TM167 Close Combat Fighting Physical 120120 100}}100% 5
TM171  TM171 Tera Blast Normal Special 08080 100}}100% 10
TM181  TM181 Knock Off Dark Physical 06565 100}}100% 20
TM197  TM197 Dual Wingbeat Flying Physical 04040 090}}90% 10
TM204  TM204 Double-Edge Normal Physical 120120 100}}100% 15
TM205  TM205 Endeavor Normal Physical 0000 100}}100% 5
TM213  TM213 Coaching Fighting Status 0000 00—}}—% 10
TM221  TM221 Throat Chop Dark Physical 08080 100}}100% 15
  • Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Zapdos
  • Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an evolution or an alternate form of Zapdos

By breeding

Zapdos
Generation IX
Other generations:
II - III - IV - V - VI - VII - VIII
 Parent   Move   Type   Cat.   Pwr.   Acc.   PP 
This Pokémon learns no moves by breeding.
  • Moves marked with an asterisk (*) must be chain bred onto Zapdos
  • Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Zapdos
  • Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an evolution of Zapdos
  • Click on the generation numbers at the top to see Egg moves from other generations
Galarian Zapdos
Generation IX
Other generations:
II - III - IV - V - VI - VII - VIII
 Parent   Move   Type   Cat.   Pwr.   Acc.   PP 
This Pokémon learns no moves by breeding.
  • Moves marked with an asterisk (*) must be chain bred onto Zapdos
  • Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Zapdos
  • Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an evolution of Zapdos
  • Click on the generation numbers at the top to see Egg moves from other generations

TCG-only moves

Move Card
Bolt Strike Zapdos G (Arceus 12)

Side game data

Zapdos

Pokémon Pinball
   
Acquisition: Catch
Pokémon Trozei!
 
Rarity: Rare
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon
Red Rescue Team and Blue Rescue Team
Body size: 4
Recruit rate: 30%
Friend Area: Legendary Island
Phrases
51%-100% HP I represent the power of lightning!
26%-50% HP I am troubled... My health is down by half already...
1%-25% HP I fear the worst... Even my thunderbolts grow weak...
Level up I've leveled! My lightning grows more powerful!
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon
Explorers of Time, Explorers of Darkness, and Explorers of Sky
  Body size: 2
Recruit rate: 10%
IQ group: C
Pokémon Super Mystery Dungeon
 

Body size: Standard (1 tile)
How to Recruit: Boss of Yellow Point
Connected to: Moltres, Lugia
Connection Orb Set: 20

Phrases
Normal My lightning is the rage of the sky and the ground! Let me fight by your side!
Low HP (< 50%) I won't lose like this...
Pokémon Ranger: Guardian Signs
Group:
Electric
Poké Assist:
(present)
 
Electric
Field move:
(present)
 
(None ×-)
Not available in the past.
Browser entry R-299
It creates thunderbolts in the air and discharges electricity.
Pokémon Rumble
Attack ●●●●●
Defense ●●●
Speed ●●●●
Pokémon Rumble Blast
Attack ●●●●●
Defense ●●●
Speed ●●●●
Pokémon Rumble Rush
  Walking Speed: 1.5 seconds Base HP: 57
Base Attack: 83 Base Defense: 57 Base Speed: 70
Pokémon Battle Trozei
Electric
Attack Power: ★★★★

 

Power of Six
Increases the damage dealt by matching six Pokémon.
Pokémon Shuffle
 
Electric
  Attack Power: 70 - 140   20

#150
 

Power of 4
Increases damage when you make a match of four.
  Swappable Skill(s): Paralyze


Pokémon GO
  Base HP: 207 Base Attack: 253 Base Defense: 185
Egg Distance: N/A Buddy Distance: 20 km Evolution Requirement: N/A
Fast Attacks: Charge Beam, Thunder Shock
Charged Attacks: Zap Cannon, Thunderbolt, Thunder, Ancient Power*, Drill Peck*, Frustration , Return 

Galarian Zapdos

Pokémon GO
  Base HP: 207 Base Attack: 252 Base Defense: 189
Egg Distance: N/A Buddy Distance: 20 km Evolution Requirement: N/A
Fast Attacks: Counter
Charged Attacks: Close Combat, Brave Bird, Ancient Power

Evolution data

Zapdos

 
Unevolved
Zapdos
 Electric  Flying 



Galarian Zapdos

 
Unevolved
Zapdos
Galarian Form
 Fighting  Flying 



Sprites

Generation I
Red Green Red Blue Yellow
           
Front Back Front Back Front Back
Generation II
Gold Silver Crystal
           
           
Front Back Front Back Front Back
Generation III
Ruby Sapphire Emerald FireRed LeafGreen
           
           
Front Back Front Back Front Back
Generation IV
Diamond Pearl Platinum HeartGold SoulSilver
           
           
Front Back Front Back Front Back
Generation V
Black White Black 2 White 2
       
       
Front Back Front Back
Generation VI
X Y Omega Ruby Alpha Sapphire
Front Back Front Back
Generation VII
Sun Moon Ultra Sun Ultra Moon
Front Back Front Back
Let's Go, Pikachu! Let's Go, Eevee!
Cross-Generation
HOME
   
   
  For other sprites and images, please see Zapdos images on the Bulbagarden Archives.


Music

This is a list of music associated with Zapdos in the Pokémon games.

Games Location Song name Composition Arrangement
 US  UM  When battling Zapdos, Articuno, or Moltres Battle! (Wild Pokémon)RGBY Junichi Masuda Junichi Masuda
 Sw  Sh  When battling Galarian Zapdos, Galarian Articuno, or Galarian Moltres Battle! (Legendary Bird Pokémon) Gō Ichinose Gō Ichinose
 S  V  When battling Zapdos, Articuno, or Moltres Battle! (Wild Pokémon)PE Junichi Masuda Shota Kageyama

Trivia

  • In English, the category "Electric Pokémon" is shared by Elekid, Electabuzz, and Kantonian Zapdos.
    • In Japanese, Elekid has the category でんきポケモン Denki Pokémon (Electric Pokémon), while the other two Pokémon share the category でんげきポケモン Dengeki Pokémon (Electric Shock Pokémon).
  • Out of all the Legendary Pokémon with fixed in-game locations, Zapdos can be obtained with the fewest number of Badges: two. The player can catch Zapdos with only the Boulder Badge and either the Cascade BadgePE or the Soul BadgeRBY.
  • Zapdos and Jolteon's Japanese names are almost exactly the same as each other's, with a final ~ス ~s being the only difference.
  • Kantonian Zapdos possesses a type advantage over all of the other members of its trio, as well as Lugia, often viewed as the leader of the trio.
    • This is reversed for the trio's regional forms, with Galarian Zapdos possessing a type disadvantage against the other members and Lugia.
  • In The Bridge Bike Gang, Chopper's bike is decorated to resemble a Zapdos.
  • Zapdos's cry in Pokémon Journeys: The Series is the same as Lunala's, as seen in A Crackling Raid Battle!.
  • Zapdos and the other two legendary birds had Australian beetle species named after them: Binburrum articuno, Binburrum zapdos, and Binburrum moltres. The three species were first described in 2020, and were collectively named after the Legendary birds to reflect their rarity.[2][3]

Origin

Zapdos seems to be based on the Native American legend of the thunderbird, a spirit of thunder, lightning, and rain that took the form of a giant bird. The beating of the wings was said to create thunder. It may also have been based on the lightning bird, a bird created from wherever lightning hits the earth. Aesthetically, it may be based on hummingbirds, due to the long beak, the rather simple wings, and described violent behavior.

As suggested by the Pokédex entries, the three legendary birds appear to be embodiments of seasons, Zapdos represents summer, while Articuno and Moltres represent winter and spring, respectively. Autumn is however unrepresented.

Galarian Zapdos appears to be based on ratites, with kiwis in particular matching its brown feathers and long beak. Due to its speed, it may also be based on a roadrunner. Its powerful kicks might also draw influence from the secretarybird, a mostly terrestrial bird that hunts by stomping and kicking its prey. Its legs could also be derived from the English Pouter, a pigeon breed known for such. Its Shiny coloration is similar to Kantonian Zapdos's regular coloration.

Name origin

Zapdos may be a combination of zap and dos (Spanish for two, indicating that it is the second in the series of Kanto legendary birds).

Thunder is literally thunder.

In other languages

Language Title Meaning
  Japanese サンダー Thunder From thunder
  French Électhor From électrique and the Norse god of thunder Thor
  Spanish Zapdos Same as English name
  German Zapdos Same as English name
  Italian Zapdos Same as English name
  Korean 썬더 Sunder Transcription of Japanese name
  Mandarin Chinese 閃電鳥 / 闪电鸟 Shǎndiànniǎo From 閃電 / 闪电 shǎndiàn and 鳥 / 鸟 niǎo
  Cantonese Chinese 閃電鳥 Símdihnníuh*
雷鳥 Lèuihníuh*
From 閃電 símdihn and níuh
From lèuih and níuh


See also

References

External links

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  #0144: Articuno
Pokémon
#0146: Moltres  
  This Pokémon article is part of Project Pokédex, a Bulbapedia project that aims to write comprehensive articles on each Pokémon as a species.