Discover the Best Bird Pokémon: From Red Bird Pokémon to Early Bird Pokémon and More

Discover the Best Bird Pokémon: From Red Bird Pokémon to Early Bird Pokémon and More

Discover the fascinating world of Bird Pokémon in our ultimate round-up. From the early bird Pokémon you encounter on your initial journey to the legendary avian creatures that rule the skies, we rank the top 20 Bird Pokémon you must catch.
When you kick off your Pokémon journey, you grab a Flying-type bird Pokémon or often encounter an early bird Pokémon right after you leave your hometown – and they usually stick around till the game’s end. Mine was Pidgey. 

Bird Pokémon have been integral to the Pokémon universe from the very beginning, influencing design and gameplay alike. A Bird Pokémon can be defined as a Pokémon with feathers, a lightweight skeleton, and a toothless beaked jaw. 

These descendants of dinosaurs come in various forms and sizes. There are hundreds of bird Pokémon out there, and we’re going to show you the best 20 you just have to catch.

20. Xatu: The Mystic Psychic/Flying Bird Pokémon from Johto

Xatu is a mystical bird Pokémon inspired by the Native American totem poles, and was introduced in the second generation. People believe that Xatu can see the future with its right and the past with its left eye. Xatu’s usually stare at the sun; a theory suggests that it’s because they do not want their visions of the future to come true.

Xatu is a Psychic Flying-type Pokémon with good base stats, and its expansive move pool allows it to go against most Pokémon typing. It is mainly used as a support or a defensive Pokémon that can help your team shift the tide of battle.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Psychic/Flying
  • Region: Johto
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Synchronize, Early Bird
  • Hidden Abilities: Magic Bounce
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 65, Attack 75, Defense 70, Speed 95
  • Level-Up Moves: Peck, Confuse Ray, Tailwind
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in various Pokémon games including Pokémon Go, and the Pokémon anime series.

19. Skarmory: Johto’s Steel-Feathered Defensive Wall

Skarmory is a battle-hardened Pokémon born and raised in harsh conditions that turned its skin and feathers into solid steel. Warriors from ancient civilizations used Skarmory’s feathers as swords. Its rigid body rusts easily once it comes in contact with water, so it usually stays in when it rains.

Skarmory is a defensive Pokémon with strong physical bulk, and it can become a solid defensive wall that works as a trap setter. Skarmory was treated as a pseudo legendary Pokémon when it was released because of how rare and difficult it was to catch.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Steel/Flying
  • Region: Johto
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Keen Eye, Sturdy
  • Hidden Abilities: Weak Armor
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 65, Attack 80, Defense 140, Speed 70
  • Level-Up Moves: Steel Wing, Air Cutter, Slash
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in various Pokémon games and the Pokémon anime series.

18. Braviary: Unova’s Proud and Courageous Normal/Flying Type

Braviary is a bird Pokémon inspired by eagles, and it’s highly aggressive and prideful. Braviary is one of the most reliable Pokémon; in a battle, it will go to any lengths to keep its comrades and friends safe. The more scars a Braviary has, the more it is respected by its peers. 

It is a solid attacker and can quickly sweep Pokémon teams. Its aggressive nature goes well with a solid attack move set, allowing Braviary to stay in the game and cause significant damage.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Normal/Flying
  • Region: Unova
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Keen Eye, Sheer Force
  • Hidden Abilities: Defiant
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 100, Attack 123, Defense 75, Speed 80
  • Level-Up Moves: Wing Attack, Superpower, Sky Drop
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in Pokémon Black/White and the Pokémon anime series.

17. Toucanon: Alola’s Beak-Blasting Normal/Flying Marvel

Judging by its name and beak, Toucanon is inspired by the Toucan bird. Toucanon’s beak can ignite, and the temperature can rise to 100 °C. It also changes color, turning red as the temperature increases. They’re known as loving birds, so having them around during weddings is considered good luck. 

Toucanon is a powerful physical attacker with good overall stats, great move coverage, and is perfect as an all-rounder. Toucanon works well with a versatile move set but might be underwhelming against solid offensive teams.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Normal/Flying
  • Region: Alola
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Keen Eye, Skill Link
  • Hidden Abilities: Sheer Force
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 80, Attack 120, Defense 75, Speed 60
  • Level-Up Moves: Beak Blast, Bullet Seed, Rock Blast
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in Pokémon Sun/Moon and the Pokémon anime series.

16. Sirfetch’d: Galar’s Noble Fighting Bird with a Leek Sword

Sirfetch’d is a bird Pokémon based on white ducks which is apparent from its yellow beak and webbed feet. It’s an evolved form of Farfetch’d.  Sirfetch’d was introduced in Generation VIII, where it was found that Farfetch attained this evolution after it had survived many battles.

It is a noble Pokémon that prefers to fight fairly and is used to portray the image of nobility. It also boasts solid physical attacking capabilities and decent resilience. Sirfetch’d is capable of enduring hits while delivering potent counter attacks, particularly due to its impressively elevated attack stat.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Fighting
  • Region: Galar (originally from Kanto as Farfetch’d)
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Steadfast
  • Hidden Abilities: Scrappy
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 62, Attack 135, Defense 95, Speed 65
  • Level-Up Moves: Iron Defense, Leaf Blade, Meteor Assault
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in Pokémon Sword/Shield and the Pokémon anime series.

15. Yvetal: Kalos’s Legendary Dark/Flying Enigma

One of the strongest Pokémon introduced in Generation VI. While Yvetal does possess wings and talons, its facial and bodily features are draconic. This keeps its categorization in limbo, and many fans do not recognize him as a bird type Pokémon.

Yvetal is a legendary Pokémon with the power to absorb life energy by spreading its wings. It’s a mighty and versatile fighter with impressive stats that players can use to fill any role. Yvetal works best as an offensive attacker that can sweep entire teams, proving it to be a unique Pokémon to have on your team.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Dark/Flying
  • Region: Kalos
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Dark Aura
  • Hidden Abilities: None
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 126, Attack 131, Defense 98, Speed 99
  • Level-Up Moves: Oblivion Wing, Snarl, Dark Pulse
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in Pokémon X and Pokémon anime series, particularly in movies.

14. Empoleon: Sinnoh’s Royal Water/Steel Penguin

Empoleon takes its inspiration from penguins, sporting flippers and a body that closely resemble those of its avian counterparts. Adding to its unique features, its wings are equipped with razor-edged metal blades and sharp-clawed tips. Its webbed yellow feet are fortified with three formidable claws, capable of tearing through substantial chunks of ice.

Empoleon is a very proud Pokémon that avoids unnecessary battles. It can swim as fast as a jet boat and is known as the master of waves. It is a strong Pokémon that works well in any team as a defensive tank.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Water/Steel
  • Region: Sinnoh
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Torrent
  • Hidden Abilities: Defiant
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 84, Attack 86, Defense 88, Speed 60
  • Level-Up Moves: Hydro Pump, Drill Peck, Aqua Jet
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in Pokémon Diamond/Pearl/Platinum and the Pokémon anime series.

13. Blaziken: Hoenn’s Fiery Fighting Fowl

Blaziken, a classic favorite Fire-type Pokémon, is molded on a rooster, while its pre-evolved forms are based on chicks. Blaziken has strong muscular legs and excellent lower body strength. It can also produce flames from its ankles and wrists. 

Blaziken is an avid martial arts practitioner, and its flame burns more intensely when it faces strong opponents. It is a Pokémon with great speed and attack, and it can quickly sweep entire teams, especially if it manages to use Swords Dance. It can hold its own well even against Water-type Pokémon if it learns the Thunder Punch move.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Fire/Fighting
  • Region: Hoenn
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Blaze
  • Hidden Abilities: Speed Boost
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 80, Attack 120, Defense 70, Speed 80
  • Level-Up Moves: Blaze Kick, Sky Uppercut, Flare Blitz
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in Pokémon Ruby/Sapphire/Emerald and the Pokémon anime series.

12. Pidgeot: Kanto’s Classic Normal/Flying Type Speedster

Back in the original 151 Pokémon crew, there’s Pidgeot – a cute bird Pokémon that pops into everyone’s mind when birds are brought up. It takes cues from little birds in its design, but when it comes to power, Pidgeot is in a league of its own. This bird’s got some serious muscle; its wings can whip up windstorms with just a couple of flaps. It’s the kind of majestic beauty that both players and trainers adore, thanks to its standout skills and graceful vibe.

It works great as a hazard removal Pokémon, but its speed is the most vital stat that helps it attack quickly and support its team.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Normal/Flying
  • Region: Kanto
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Keen Eye, Tangled Feet
  • Hidden Abilities: Big Pecks
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 83, Attack 80, Defense 75, Speed 101
  • Level-Up Moves: Wing Attack, Air Slash, Hurricane
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in various Pokémon games starting from the original Red/Blue and the Pokémon anime series.

11. Decidueye: Alola’s Stealthy Grass/Ghost Sniper

One of the best starters and a strong Grass-type Pokémon, Decidueye, the ultimate green bird Pokémon, is based on various types of Owls. A cool and calm Pokémon which is easily spooked if caught off guard, but it’s a task that’s challenging to pull off. Decidueye can mask its presence, hiding from its opponents.

 It can fire an arrow to strike its targets quickly and at long distances. Decidueye has great overall stats and functions well with moves like U-turn since it can cause damage and switch the game on its opponents, especially with the Shadow Sneak move.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Grass/Ghost
  • Region: Alola
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Overgrow
  • Hidden Abilities: Long Reach
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 78, Attack 107, Defense 75, Speed 70
  • Level-Up Moves: Spirit Shackle, Leaf Blade, Sucker Punch
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in Pokémon Sun/Moon and the Pokémon anime series.

10. Moltres: Kanto’s Fiery Phoenix-like Legendary

A sizable fiery red bird Pokémon resembling a stork, Moltress is a Pokémon covered in flames and sheds embers every time it flaps its wings. It can heal its wounds by dipping itself in magma, and it flies south during winter since it doesn’t handle the cold well. There’s also a Galarian version of it, decked out in black with pops of scarlet. Instead of flames, it’s all about this eerie vibe radiating pure power – so intense that other Pokémon find it tough to get near.

Moltress is a solid offensive Pokémon powerhouse with great STAB combinations. It can take down most Pokémon and is highly reliant as a powerful Fire type.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Fire/Flying
  • Region: Kanto
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Pressure
  • Hidden Abilities: Flame Body (Galarian Form)
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 90, Attack 100, Defense 90, Speed 90
  • Level-Up Moves: Flamethrower, Heat Wave, Sky Attack
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in various Pokémon games and the Pokémon anime series, particularly in movies.

9. Porygon Z: Sinnoh’s Digitally Enhanced Avian Illusion

Porygon is a manufactured Pokémon with extraordinary physical abilities enhanced by installing additional software. This Pokémon’s design is based on birds, visible by its body, wings, and beak. Scientists designed it to travel through dimensions, but that dream never panned out. The program failed since Porygon Z became highly erratic and difficult to work with. 

Porygon Z is a threatening sweeper and strong adversary with great Special Attack stats and speed. This artificial looking bird can learn the moves of most types of Pokémon, making it an all-rounder that can even change its typing using the move Conversion and Conversion 2.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Normal
  • Region: Sinnoh (Porygon originally from Kanto)
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Adaptability, Download
  • Hidden Abilities: Analytic
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 85, Attack 80, Defense 70, Speed 90
  • Level-Up Moves: Tri Attack, Hyper Beam, Zap Cannon
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in various Pokémon games starting from Diamond/Pearl and the Pokémon anime series.

8. Altaria: Hoenn’s Cloud-Like Dragon/Flying Beauty

Altaria is a beautiful blue bird Pokémon with a long neck and large wings with fluffy white feathers that encompasses its body, making it appear as a cloud. The Pokémon uses updrafts to gracefully soar into the sky. Its beautiful voice puts the listeners into a dream-like state but can also create shrill cries to attack its foes. 

Altaria is a solid defensive wall that can stand against powerful threats primarily because of its unique Dragon Fairy typing. It has excellent overall stats and can quickly dent the enemy’s defense while bolstering its team.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Dragon/Flying
  • Region: Hoenn
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Natural Cure
  • Hidden Abilities: Cloud Nine
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 75, Attack 70, Defense 90, Speed 80
  • Level-Up Moves: Dragon Breath, Moonblast, Sky Attack
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in Pokémon Ruby/Sapphire/Emerald and the Pokémon anime series.

7. Zapdos: Kanto’s Electrifying Legendary Bird

One of the few bird-like electric yellow bird Pokémon, Zapdos, can cause thunderstorms with its electric charges. It has a Galarian variant with a red and black body which constantly seeks out strong opponents to test its might. 

Zapdos has top-notch stats and plays the offensive game like a champ. It really shines with STAB moves, and it’s the perfect candidate to be your team’s end-game sweeper.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Electric/Flying
  • Region: Kanto (Galarian Form in Galar)
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Pressure
  • Hidden Abilities: Static (Galarian Form)
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 90, Attack 90, Defense 85, Speed 100
  • Level-Up Moves: Thunderbolt, Drill Peck, Thunder
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in various Pokémon games and the Pokémon anime series, particularly in movies.

6. Articuno: Kanto’s Icy Legendary with Galarian Psychic Powers

Articuno is a fan-favorite bird Pokémon that has the power to control ice at will. It chills moisture when it flaps its wings and resides in permafrost snowy mountains. Articuno also has a Galarian variant which is lavender in color and uses its psychic powers to take flight. 

It is the most decent all-rounder of all three legendary birds and can work offensively and defensively. Articuno won’t be your defensive wall, but it can always cause heavy damage to your opponent’s, making it one of the best bird Pokémon.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Ice/Flying
  • Region: Kanto (Galarian Form in Galar)
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Pressure
  • Hidden Abilities: Competitive (Galarian Form)
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 90, Attack 85, Defense 100, Speed 85
  • Level-Up Moves: Ice Beam, Blizzard, Hurricane
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in various Pokémon games and the Pokémon anime series, especially in movies.

5. Corviknight: Galar’s Armored Flying/Steel Type Guardian

Corviknight, a dominating black bird Pokémon based, is based on a Raven, and it is one of the coolest bird Pokémon because of its dark design and black body armor. It is a robust bird Pokémon, scaring any other Pokémon that try to challenge it. It frequently clashes with Skarmory because of their aggressive natures and strong bodies. 

Corviknight is one of the best defensive Pokémon that can become a one man guard, with a fantastic move pool. It can remove hazards, take out its opponents, and deal heavy damage.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Flying/Steel
  • Region: Galar
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Pressure, Unnerve
  • Hidden Abilities: Mirror Armor
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 98, Attack 87, Defense 105, Speed 67
  • Level-Up Moves: Brave Bird, Steel Wing, Sky Attack
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in Pokémon Sword/Shield and the Pokémon anime series.

4. Talonflame: Kalos’s Fast and Fiery Falcon

Talonflame’s design is loosely based on a falcon, apparent from its name to its design. It is a strong and efficient Pokémon that dives down to attack its prey and grasps them with its talons. Talonflame has fireproof wings that can shoot embers through the gaps between its feathers.

It is a swift Pokémon that functions best as a revenge killer. It has a strong arsenal of support and attack moves that can be combined to create a great member for any Pokémon team.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Fire/Flying
  • Region: Kalos
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Flame Body
  • Hidden Abilities: Gale Wings
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 78, Attack 81, Defense 71, Speed 126
  • Level-Up Moves: Brave Bird, Flare Blitz, Acrobatics
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in Pokémon X/Y and the Pokémon anime series.

3. Hawlucha: Kalos’s Agile Fighting/Flying High-Flyer

Hawlucha is a bipedal bird Pokémon that cannot fly but can use its wings to glide. Despite its compact size, it’s all about nimbleness and staying balanced in battles by keeping its body agile and its center of gravity low. It is the only Pokémon capable of learning the move Flying Press, mainly because its favorite tactic is to strike from above. 

Hawlucha takes the lead as a top-notch sweeper, leaving even the fastest Pokémon in the dust with its speed. To knock out those bulkier opponents in a single blow, it needs a Swords Dance power-up. But if it gets that Swords Dance off, good luck putting a stop to its momentum.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Fighting/Flying
  • Region: Kalos
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Limber, Unburden
  • Hidden Abilities: Mold Breaker
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 78, Attack 92, Defense 75, Speed 118
  • Level-Up Moves: Flying Press, High Jump Kick, Sky Attack
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in Pokémon X/Y and the Pokémon anime series.

2. Staraptor: Sinnoh’s Intimidating Normal/Flying Ace

Staraptor is a Pokémon based on many large birds of prey; it usually lives alone and can easily hold its own in fights. If provoked, it can turn very aggressive, focusing on attacking even when injured or inflicted by status ailments.

The real muscle of Staraptor lies in its STAB moves. When the game’s winding down, this bird can swoop in as a late-game finisher, using its sheer power and speed to knock out any weakened opponents.

• Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon
  • Type: Normal/Flying
  • Region: Sinnoh
• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Intimidate, Reckless
  • Hidden Abilities: None
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 85, Attack 120, Defense 70, Speed 100
  • Level-Up Moves: Brave Bird, Close Combat, Wing Attack
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Appears in Pokémon Diamond/Pearl/Platinum and the Pokémon anime series.

1. Ho-Oh: Johto’s Legendary Fire/Flying Guardian of the Skies

The mythical bird based on a phoenix, Ho-Oh, is the guardian of the skies and is believed to hold the power of resurrection. Anyone who catches a glimpse of this Pokémon is promised eternal happiness. It often perches atop the Bell Tower in Johto, where it’s believed to have brought to life the Legendary beasts: Entei, Suicune, and Raikou.

It is both a defensive and offensive champion that can work in any way giving its team the winning edge. Ho-Oh is the champion of bird Pokémon and one of the most iconic Pokémon in the world.

 Key Characteristics of Bird Pokémon

• Type: Fire/Flying
• Region: Johto

• Abilities
  • Special Abilities: Pressure
  • Hidden Abilities: Regenerator
• Statistics
  • Base Stats: HP 106, Attack 130, Defense 90, Speed 90
  • Level-Up Moves: Sacred Fire, Fire Blast, Sky Attack, Punishment
• Commercial Aspects
  • Games/Media Appearances: Ho-Oh has appeared in various Pokémon games starting from Pokémon Gold/Silver and has had significant roles in the Pokémon anime, including movies.

In Closing: Unveiling the Sky’s Best-Kept Secrets

And there we have it—the crème de la crème of Bird Pokémon, from the humble Pidgey that marks the start of many a journey, to the awe-inspiring Ho-Oh, guardian of the skies. We’ve soared through different regions, witnessed unique abilities, and marveled at the dazzling diversity among avian Pokémon. Whether it’s the fiery plumage of Moltres, the psychic prowess of Xatu, or the battle-hardened armor of Corviknight, each of these Bird Pokémon offers something exceptional to every aspiring Pokémon Trainer.

If you haven’t caught them all yet, consider this your ultimate aviary bucket list. May your Poké Balls be ever accurate, and may your journey through the world of Pokémon be as exciting as the creatures that inhabit it. Until next time, Trainers—keep aiming for the skies!