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Habitat |
Deep lakes
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Overview |
Until a fisherman caught a live Dratini from a large underwater colony about a century ago (reputedly after a 10-hour struggle), these Pokémon were long thought to be myths. This has given them the nickname the “Mirage Pokémon” (officially, they are still the Dragon Pokémon). Even today, these elusive Pokémon dwell at the bottoms of deep lakes, where they are difficult to find. Young Dratini are rather large for newborns, with some having been reported be be as long as 6.5 feet (2 meters). As they age, they grow even larger, shedding their skins periodically (sometimes as often as every day). They are extremely vulnerable after shedding, so they will hide behind powerful waterfalls away from their colonies during these times. Their bodies grow at an astounding rate, so they must shed often. These skins were likely the source of myths regarding mysterious, lake-dwelling, serpentine creatures. For a long time, people were convinced that the these skins were hoaxes. It was not until scientists compared their DNA to that of actual Dratini was finally accepted that not only were the skins authentic, but that Dratini were real as well. Today, shed Dratini skin are often treated to make luxury leather goods.
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