Much like Spearow, Rufflet is a flying/normal type pokémon with a passion for picking fights. It’s once Rufflet finally outgrows its fuzzy down feathers that the eaglet learns how to really pack a punch, though. Don’t underestimate Braviary for its common typing: in the right hands, this ferocious flyer can move mountains (or at least take out a few rock type pokémon). If you want one of your own, here’s how to find them in Pokémon Sword and Shield.

Where To Find Rufflet

Unfortunately for Shield players, Rufflet and Braviary are version-exclusive to Sword. Don’t let that hold you back, though - find a friend with Sword or go online to look for link codes. If you have Pokémon Home and another game Rufflet appears in, you can also trade from there. For players who have Sword, Rufflet can be found on Route 8 as an overworld spawn or in the Bridge Field and Stony Wilderness areas of the Wild Area. It’s most common spawn is in Bridge Field during a sandstorm (25%), whereas it only has a small chance to be found in the Stony Wilderness during most weather. The most consistent way to get one is to look on Route 8.

Note that Rufflet and Braviary are also male-exclusive pokémon, so if you’re looking to breed them to give to friends, you’ll need a ditto.

Evolving Rufflet Into Braviary

Rufflet evolves into Braviary at a whopping level 54, but that shouldn’t be hard to reach, especially if you’re making use of the candies that drop from Wild Area raids. Just keep him in your party and it’ll happen in no time.

Using Braviary In Battle

Braviary is a pokémon that excels in flying too close to the sun. One of the best moves to keep on it for coverage is Close Combat, giving it a surprise edge over rock types that would normally menace any flying type. However, it’s speed is only average, so you’ll have to trust that Braviary can throw the move out before an opponent uses a rock-type move on him. Other good moves to keep on your Braviary include Brave Bird, Roost (to heal off those Brave Birds) and Sky Attack, if you think you’ll have time to pull it off. If not, try out a stat-buffing move like Bulk Up or Agility instead.

NEXT: Pokemon Sword And Shield: How To Find And Evolve ‘Em All