One Pokémon GO player has accomplished an extraordinary feat, catching a shiny Shadow Scyther with perfect Individual Values (IVs) and a weather bonus—an achievement estimated to have odds of just 1 in 442,368.
A Rare Bug-Type Find
Scyther, the iconic Bug- and Flying-type Pokémon, has been part of Pokémon GO since the game’s launch. Its shiny variant debuted during the Bug Out event in April 2019, and Shadow Scyther joined the lineup later that year in August. Since then, it has remained a fan-favorite thanks to its distinctive green-to-pink shiny form and its appearances in various events and wild spawns.
The player, known as FWJSupremium, shared their capture of a shiny Shadow Scyther with perfect IVs, a rare combination that collectors often refer to as a “shundo.” The Pokémon also benefitted from a weather bonus, which increases a Pokémon’s strength and provides additional Stardust when caught under specific weather conditions.
Weather Bonuses and Odds
Weather bonuses in Pokémon GO are tied to real-world weather patterns, influencing which Pokémon appear more frequently and enhancing their combat potential. The player’s shiny Shadow Scyther was not only weather-boosted but also achieved maximum IVs—making the odds of this catch incredibly slim. According to the player’s own calculations, the chance of encountering such a Pokémon stands at just 1 in 442,368.
Stories From the Community
This remarkable find joins a long list of memorable captures shared by the Pokémon GO community. Players have previously reported catching unique Pokémon such as shiny Zigzagoon with zero stats—commonly called a “nundo”—and perfect IV Origin Forme Dialga, another coveted “shundo.” These rare Pokémon are treasured by collectors and often serve as highlights of a trainer’s journey.
Upcoming Opportunities
For players inspired by these stories, upcoming Pokémon GO events offer more chances to encounter special Pokémon. On July 26, Dynamax Latios and Latias will appear. Then, on July 29, players can look forward to Toedscool and Toedscruel, followed by the appearance of Gigantamax Butterfree on August 3. Each event provides opportunities for rare encounters and unique collections.
