Alpha Pokemon make a strong return in Pokemon Legends: Z-A, bringing with them the same thrilling sense of danger and reward as seen in Legends: Arceus. Among these powerful creatures is Alpha Pidgey, the iconic bird Pokemon from the original generation—bigger, fiercer, and far more aggressive than its ordinary counterparts. Below is a complete guide to help you locate, battle, and capture this Alpha Pokemon efficiently.

Where to Find Alpha Pidgey

Alpha Pidgey is a fixed spawn located in Wild Zone 1, the earliest open-world area accessible near Lumiose City's outskirts. It roams the western rooftop of a tall building—a location that offers both elevation and visibility over the zone below. To reach it, climb the ladder beside the pond, then move westward across the roof until you spot the red-aura Alpha pacing near the ledge.

1. Location: Rooftop, Wild Zone 1
2. Time: Appears both day and night
3. Level: 25–26
4. Type: Normal / Flying
5. Signature Move: U-Turn (Bug-type)

While the area is accessible early, this Alpha can be surprisingly dangerous for under-leveled teams. Be sure to prepare before climbing up.

How to Approach Alpha Pidgey

Despite its aggression, Alpha Pidgey's position actually makes stealth approaches easier. The rooftop layout includes multiple chimneys and ducts that break line-of-sight—perfect for sneaking.

1. Crouch and move between chimneys to stay hidden.
2. Wait for Pidgey to turn its back, then aim a Quick Ball for a backstrike bonus.
3. If it spots you, retreat down the ladder and re-enter the area to reset aggro.

The backstrike + Quick Ball combo offers one of the best capture chances before battle even begins.

How to Defeat or Weaken It

If you prefer a head-on fight, expect Alpha Pidgey to open with U-Turn, a move that deals Bug-type damage and switches it out if it has allies nearby (in this case, it usually doesn't). The key to victory is exploiting its well-known weaknesses:

Avoid using Grass or Bug Pokemon, as Pidgey resists these types. Bring a sturdy Electric-type such as Luxio or Pachirisu, or a Rock-type like Graveler, to tank its hits and reduce its HP safely.

Best Capture Tactics

Even weakened, Alpha Pokemon can be stubborn to catch. Here are several reliable strategies:

1. Save before engaging. This ensures you can retry if you accidentally knock it out.
2. Inflict passive damage (e.g., Burn or Poison) using Will-O-Wisp or Toxic to slowly lower HP.
3. Use a Timer Ball if the battle drags on—its catch rate rises over time.
4. Avoid enraging it. Repeated failed throws will make Alphas “angry,” rendering them immune to Poke Balls until they calm down.
5. Last-Chance Capture: If Alpha Pidgey faints, you'll have a few seconds while it's stunned to throw one final Ultra Ball for a potential catch.

Should You Buy Alpha Pidgey Instead?

If you prefer not to spend time farming rooftop spawns or resetting saves, you can buy Alpha Pidgey at PoGoBuy.com for $7.99. Purchased Pokemon arrive trained, making it a convenient option for collectors or completionists who want to focus on exploration rather than capture RNG.

Summary

Alpha Pidgey in Pokemon Legends: Z-A is an early-game test of stealth, patience, and precision. Found on the Wild Zone 1 rooftop, it's easy to reach but challenging to tame. Whether you sneak up for a backstrike or battle it head-on with Electric- or Rock-type moves, saving beforehand is key. And if you'd rather skip the hunt altogether, purchasing it for $7.99 at PoGoBuy.com is an efficient alternative.