Sandslash
Japanese: サンドパン Sandpan
It’s a Ground-type Pokémon that comes under Generation I and evolves into Sandshrew when it reaches the 22nd level. Having a dual-type ice/steel regional form in Alola, Sandslash becomes Sandshrew after being exposed to an ice stone.
Characteristics
Sandslash is a pholidote Pokémon known for functioning on two pedals and dwelling in the ground. However, it can run on all pedals too. The underside of Sandslash is light yellow, with its underbelly being white-colored. A thick tail, narrow muzzle, and almond-shaped blue eyes enhance its personality. The back of Sandslash is covered in sharp, brown quills mostly that are formed due to its dry, strong hide. Sandslash is featured by its paws and feet having two large claws.
Sandslash has its claws as its primary weapons used for slashing and burrowing. The spikes and claws of Sandslash are breakable and also shed regularly. However, they also grow back at a good speed.
The broken parts of Sandslash are usable for carving plows to till farm fields. In dry areas, the claws become smoother. The Sandslash can curl into a big ball that helps it roll for attacking or escaping as well as protecting itself from heatstroke and guarding its belly.
This Pokémon is quite adept at tree climbs, due to which it can ambush its enemies over their heads. For feeding the Sandshrew waiting below, Sandslash slashes berries upon climbing trees. Sandslash is found in desert areas mostly. They also live in trees at night for sleeping.
Sandslash’s quills and icy blue hides are covered in ice in the Alola regions. These quills of Sandslash resemble icicles and are taller as compared to a Sandslash in other regions.
Sandslash has its hide for camouflage in the snow while only its spines remain exposed.
Contrary to the Kantonian variant, the Alolan Sandslash uses its thick hide and icy spines to prevent itself from curling up into a ball. The cold air emitted from Sandslash’s body sharpens its quills. The forepaws of Sandslash are larger than its counterpart, while the claws are thinner and longer, hooked at the tips. The four paws and claws of Sandslash help climb trees and scale icebergs. Although Sandslash has quite a weight due to its ice-covered body, Alolan Sandslash can quickly move by its claws to carve the snowy pathways. Sandslash can move faster than any Pokémon in the mountains covered with snow. Sandslash tends to reside in the deeper areas of snowy mountains where climbing cannot/shouldn’t be done. The snow sprays kicked by Sandslash are popular sources of aesthetics for photographers. For beholding this Pokémon’s icy spikes sparkles during dawn light, people climb the mountains too where Sandslash lives.
