Shiny Galvantula in Pokémon GO: Catch Guide & Tips
Shiny Galvantula can be obtained in Pokémon GO by evolving a Shiny Joltik with 50 candies or encountering it directly during special events with a 1-in-64 chance.
Introduction to Shiny Galvantula
Shiny Galvantula, the EleSpider Pokémon, is a highly sought-after variant in Pokémon GO. This Bug and Electric-type Pokémon features a subtle but distinctive yellow coloration compared to its regular blue form. Galvantula was initially introduced to Pokémon GO alongside the Trade Evolution mechanic on January 10, 2020, while its shiny version debuted during GO Fest 2023: Global on August 26, 2023.
For trainers looking to add this electric arachnid to their collection, there are several methods to obtain it. Whether you’re hunting in the wild, participating in raids, or evolving from Joltik, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about obtaining Shiny Galvantula in Pokémon GO.
Methods to Obtain Shiny Galvantula
Evolving Shiny Joltik
The most reliable method to obtain Shiny Galvantula is by evolving a Shiny Joltik. Here’s how to accomplish this:
- First, you’ll need to catch a Shiny Joltik. During special events like Sizeable Surprises, Joltik has a boosted appearance rate in the wild.
- Once you’ve caught a Shiny Joltik, you’ll need to collect 50 Joltik Candies to evolve it into Galvantula. There are several ways to gather these candies:
- Catching more Joltik will yield 3 candies per catch
- Transferring excess Joltik to Professor Willow grants 1 additional candy per transfer
- Making Joltik your buddy Pokémon to earn candies through walking
- Completing research tasks that reward Joltik Candies
- Using Pinap Berries when catching Joltik to double the candy rewards
- Once you have accumulated 50 Joltik Candies, you can evolve your Shiny Joltik into a Shiny Galvantula.
Wild Encounters
Finding Shiny Galvantula directly in the wild is possible but considerably more challenging. Here are some strategies to increase your chances:
- Weather Boost: Galvantula receives a spawn boost during rainy weather due to its Bug and Electric typing. Playing during rainy in-game weather conditions can increase your chances of encountering this Pokémon.
- Lure Modules and Incense: Using these items, especially during rainy weather, can significantly increase your chances of attracting Galvantula to your location.
- Special Events: Keep an eye out for events like Wild Area Global, which often feature boosted spawn rates for specific Pokémon including Galvantula, and sometimes increased shiny rates.
- Community Days: Although Joltik/Galvantula hasn’t had a dedicated Community Day yet, these events typically feature dramatically increased shiny rates (approximately 1 in 25) for featured Pokémon.
Raid Battles
Galvantula occasionally appears in raid battles, providing another opportunity to encounter its shiny form. To defeat Galvantula efficiently in raids, consider using the following counters:
- Mega Blaziken with Fire Spin and Blast Burn
- Shadow Heatran with Fire Spin and Magma Storm
- Reshiram with Fire Fang and Fusion Flare
- Primal Groudon with Mud Shot and Fire Blast
- Shadow Moltres with Fire Spin and Overheat
- Shadow Chandelure with Fire Spin and Overheat
As a Bug and Electric-type Pokémon, Galvantula is 160% weak to Fire and Rock-type moves, making these ideal choices for raid battles.
GO Battle League Rewards
In previous seasons of the GO Battle League, Galvantula has been offered as an encounter reward for winning battles. While this method isn’t consistently available, it’s worth keeping track of current season rewards to see if Galvantula is included.
Trading
If you have friends who have already caught a Shiny Galvantula, trading is another option to consider. Keep in mind that trading requires both players to be within close physical proximity, and special trades (which include shiny Pokémon) are limited to one per day.
Shiny Galvantula Appearance and Rarity
Visual Differences
Shiny Galvantula features a more yellow body compared to the regular blue version. The change is subtle but noticeable, particularly in the body coloration. The legs remain dark, but the overall appearance shifts from blue to a more vibrant yellow hue.
Many players in the Pokémon community have mixed opinions about this shiny variant. Some appreciate the subtle color change, while others wish the difference was more dramatic, particularly noting that the bright neon green of Shiny Joltik doesn’t carry over to its evolution.
Encounter Rates
The standard shiny rate for Galvantula in Pokémon GO is approximately 1 in 64, which is considerably better than the base shiny rate of 1 in 500 for most Pokémon. However, this can still make finding a Shiny Galvantula challenging without dedicated hunting.
During special events, these odds may improve further, making event participation one of the best strategies for shiny hunting. Events like GO Fest or special themed events often feature boosted shiny rates for selected Pokémon.
Best Times to Hunt for Shiny Galvantula
Special Events
The most opportune times to hunt for Shiny Galvantula or Shiny Joltik are during special events that feature these Pokémon. Events to watch for include:
- Bug Out! events, which typically feature increased spawns of Bug-type Pokémon
- Electric-themed events that boost Electric-type spawns
- Wild Area Global events, which have previously featured Galvantula with boosted spawn rates
- Seasonal events that may include Joltik or Galvantula in their featured Pokémon lineup
Weather Conditions
Taking advantage of in-game weather can significantly improve your chances of encountering Galvantula:
- Rainy Weather: Both Joltik and Galvantula receive spawn boosts during rainy weather due to their Electric typing
- Cloudy Weather: Can boost Bug-type spawns, potentially increasing Joltik and Galvantula appearances
Time of Day
While not as significant as weather or events, some players report better luck finding certain Pokémon during specific times of day. Electric-type Pokémon like Galvantula may have slightly increased spawn rates during evening hours, though this is less consistent than other factors.
Optimizing Your Shiny Hunt
Using Items Effectively
To maximize your chances of encountering Shiny Galvantula or Joltik, consider using the following items strategically:
- Lure Modules: Place these at PokéStops to attract more Pokémon for 30 minutes (or longer for special lures)
- Incense: Attracts Pokémon to your location for 60 minutes, ideal for when you’re on the move
- Rainy Lure Module: A special lure that attracts Water, Bug, and Electric-type Pokémon, potentially increasing Joltik spawns
Catch Techniques
When you do encounter Joltik or Galvantula, use these techniques to improve your catch rate:
- Razz Berries, Golden Razz Berries, or Silver Pinap Berries to increase catch chances
- Ultra Balls for the highest catch rate among standard balls
- Curveball throws and excellent throws to further improve catch probability
- If you’re specifically hunting for candies to evolve Shiny Joltik, consider using Pinap Berries to double your candy rewards
Community Resources
Joining local Pokémon GO communities can significantly improve your shiny hunting success:
- Discord groups often share information about local spawns and nests
- Local Facebook groups may coordinate lure parties during events
- Apps like PokeGenie can help you join remote raids if Galvantula is appearing in raids globally
Galvantula in the Pokémon Universe
Pokédex Information
Galvantula, the EleSpider Pokémon, is #596 in the National Pokédex. It was originally discovered in the Unova region and made its debut in Pokémon Black and White. According to Pokédex entries, when Galvantula is attacked, it creates an electric barrier by spitting out electrically charged threads.
This Bug and Electric-type Pokémon evolves from Joltik at level 36 in the main series games, or with 50 candies in Pokémon GO. Galvantula is known for its unique typing, making it resistant to Fighting, Ground, Grass, Electric, and Steel-type moves.
Habitat and Behavior
In the Pokémon world, Galvantula is typically found in fields, farms, forests, parks, beaches, ditches, streams, railways, and countryside areas. They can also be spotted near industrial buildings, college campuses, and in dry climates.
Galvantula is known for creating electric webs to trap prey, using its ability to generate electricity to paralyze victims before consuming them. This behavior makes it an effective hunter in its natural habitat.
Competitive Use of Galvantula
Battle Strengths
While not considered a top-tier competitive Pokémon in GO Battle League, Galvantula has carved out a niche in certain formats, particularly in Great League. Its unique typing gives it advantages against several popular Pokémon.
Key strengths include:
- Resistance to common types like Electric, Fighting, Grass, and Steel
- Access to Volt Switch, a powerful fast move that generates energy quickly
- Coverage moves like Lunge and Cross Poison that can deal with various opponents
Recommended Movesets
For those looking to use Galvantula in battles, consider the following movesets:
Great League:
- Fast Move: Volt Switch
- Charged Moves: Lunge and Cross Poison/Discharge
Ultra League (less recommended due to CP limitations):
- Fast Move: Volt Switch
- Charged Moves: Lunge and Discharge
When using Galvantula, focus on its strength as a “safe switch” that can flip unfavorable matchups with shield pressure and consistent damage output.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Shiny Galvantula be found in the wild?
Yes, Shiny Galvantula can be found in the wild, but the odds are approximately 1 in 64. Your chances increase during special events that feature Galvantula with boosted spawn rates.
What is the best way to get Shiny Galvantula?
The most reliable method is to catch a Shiny Joltik and evolve it using 50 Joltik Candies. Focus on events that boost Joltik spawns and use items like Lure Modules and Incense to increase encounter rates.
How rare is Shiny Galvantula compared to other shinies?
With odds of approximately 1 in 64, Shiny Galvantula is less rare than standard wild shinies (1 in 500) but still requires dedicated hunting to find. Event-boosted rates can make it more accessible during specific time periods.
Does weather affect Shiny Galvantula spawns?
Yes, rainy weather boosts Electric and Bug-type spawns, increasing your chances of encountering both Joltik and Galvantula. This weather boost doesn’t affect shiny rates directly but increases the number of potential shiny checks.
Can I get Shiny Galvantula from raids?
Yes, when Galvantula appears in raids, there is a chance for it to be shiny. The shiny rate from raids is typically the same as wild encounters (approximately 1 in 64 for Galvantula).
Samantha Yates is a creative writer and journalist with expertise in content creation and editing. She holds an MA in Creative Writing and brings professional experience from Lionbridge, where she developed engaging content for leading technology companies
