What Animal Is Pikachu Based On?
Last Updated Apr 4, 2020 4:59:30 AM ET
Pikachu, the yellow Pokemon that Ash Ketchum typically carries with him, is listed on the official Pokemon website as a "Mouse Pokemon," though anatomically, Pikachu is probably more remniscent of a hamster or a pika.
The similarity between the names pika and Pikachu has led to speculation that perhaps Pikachu is based on the pika. The pika also emits a high-pitched warning whistle that is vaguely similar to Pikachu's characteristic battle cry, though the pika, unlike Pikachu, has no tail. Pikachu evolved from Pichu, who appears even more mouse-like, with large ears and a small, rounded body. Pichu is officially categorized as "Tiny Mouse."
More From Reference
Will 5G Impact Our Cell Phone Plans (or Our Health?!)
The Secret Science of Solving Crossword Puzzles
Racist Phrases to Remove From Your Mental Lexicon
Is the Coronavirus Crisis Increasing America's Drug Overdoses?
Fact Check: What Power Does the President Really Have Over State Governors?
Festival of Sacrifice: The Past and Present of the Islamic Holiday of Eid al-Adha