#029: Nidoran

In the pokemon kingdom as in humans, males often differ from females – growing larger tusks or brighter markings in order to compete for mates. But the two genders of Nidoran are so distinct from one another that in centuries past they were mistakenly classed as entirely separate species. These seclusive creatures never mate in captivity, which only deepened the mix-up.

Although female Nidoran have far smaller horns, they actually possess a more potent poison than the males. Indeed, while it's difficult for a female Nidoran to strike with its venomous barb, a single scratch is often all it takes to strike the largest of foes stone dead. Despite this, when predators come calling it is the male Nidoran that has the task of fighting them off, while the female ushers the young to safety. Some chalk this up to cowardice, others to merciful restraint.