Butterfree: A Comprehensive Biography of the Iconic Pokémon

Butterfree, the Butterfly Pokémon, has fluttered its way into the hearts of trainers and collectors since the earliest days of the Pokémon franchise. As a beloved Bug and Flying-type Pokémon, Butterfree is known for its elegant wings, signature moves, and pivotal place in both competitive battles and the Pokémon trading card game. In this detailed biography, we’ll explore Butterfree’s stats, evolution, lore, and legacy, making it the definitive guide for fans and trainers alike.

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Butterfree at a Glance

• Pokédex Number: #012
• Type: Bug / Flying
• Category: Butterfly Pokémon
• Height: 1.1 m (3'07")
• Weight: 32.0 kg (70.5 lbs)

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Butterfree Evolution: From Caterpillar to Butterfly

Butterfree’s journey begins with the humble Caterpie, one of the earliest Pokémon encountered in the Kanto region. Here’s Butterfree’s iconic evolution chain:

1. Caterpie (#010): The Worm Pokémon, Bug-type.
2. Metapod (#011): The Cocoon Pokémon, Bug-type.
3. Butterfree (#012): The Butterfly Pokémon, Bug/Flying-type.

Caterpie evolves quickly into Metapod at level 7, and then into Butterfree at level 10. This rapid evolution makes Butterfree one of the first fully-evolved Pokémon available to trainers, often playing a pivotal role in early-game strategies.

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Butterfree Stats and Battle Capabilities

Butterfree may not boast the highest base stats in the Pokémon universe, but its unique movepool and abilities make it a versatile asset in battle. Here are Butterfree's typical stats in mainline games:

• HP: 60
• Attack: 45
• Defense: 50
• Special Attack: 90
• Special Defense: 80
• Speed: 70

Butterfree’s high Special Attack allows it to utilize powerful moves like Bug Buzz, Psychic, and Air Slash. Its signature move, Sleep Powder, combined with the ability Compound Eyes, increases accuracy, making Butterfree a formidable status-inflicter. In later generations, moves like Quiver Dance and Hurricane made it a surprising threat in the right hands.

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Butterfree Lore: Mystique and Marvel in the Pokémon World

Butterfree is celebrated for its graceful flight and captivating presence. According to Pokémon lore, Butterfree’s wings are coated with toxic scales, which it uses to defend itself and incapacitate foes. Its wings are also waterproof, allowing it to collect honey from flowers even in the rain—a trait often referenced in both the anime and Pokédex entries.

In the original Pokémon anime, Butterfree gained widespread popularity thanks to Ash Ketchum’s own Butterfree, whose emotional farewell episode, “Bye Bye Butterfree,” remains one of the most memorable moments for fans. This episode highlighted Butterfree’s gentle nature and its role as a symbol of growth and letting go.

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Butterfree in the Pokémon Trading Card Game

Butterfree has appeared on numerous cards in the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) since its debut in the Base Set. The Butterfree trading card is cherished by collectors for its nostalgic artwork and strategic abilities. Over the years, Butterfree cards have featured unique moves like Whirlwind and Gust, as well as abilities that reflect its in-game powers, such as status-inflicting attacks and evolution-based effects.

Special variants, such as Butterfree V and Butterfree VMAX, have introduced new strategies and artwork, cementing Butterfree’s legacy in the Pokémon TCG community.

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Butterfree’s Enduring Legacy

Butterfree’s blend of accessible evolution, distinctive design, and memorable anime appearances has ensured its lasting popularity. It holds a special place in the hearts of trainers who value its early-game utility, unique battle tactics, and emotional resonance in Pokémon lore. Whether you’re seeking Butterfree’s stats for competitive play, curious about its evolution from Caterpie and Metapod, or hunting for that elusive Butterfree trading card, this Butterfly Pokémon is a true classic of the franchise.

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Summary:
Butterfree (#12) is a Bug and Flying-type Pokémon with a rich history and a beloved place in the Pokémon universe. From its swift evolution chain (Caterpie → Metapod → Butterfree) to its versatile battle stats and touching lore, Butterfree continues to enchant trainers and collectors alike. Whether in the wild, on the battlefield, or as a prized trading card, Butterfree’s wings continue to spread joy across generations.