Articuno, Zapdos and Moltres

The three legendary birds of Kanto. Originally believed to be pure myth, they are actually based on sightings of incredibly rare bird species living in remote parts of the country.

The Articuno lives in snowy mountains and is thought to cause blizzards and appear before those about to freeze to death.

Zapdos is said to be seen only during thunderstorms, its feathers seemingly impervious to electricity. People claim that it actually generates lightning.

The mythical Moltres is a bird made of pure flame, with the ability to regenerate underground when injured.