Basilisk

Description

The Basilisk, also known as the King of Serpents, is a giant serpent capable of reaching enormous size over the course of its centuries-long lifespan. Classified as XXXXX by the Ministry of Magic — a known wizard killer, impossible to domesticate or train — the Basilisk is among the most feared creatures in the wizarding world.

Its most deadly weapon is its gaze, which kills instantly upon direct eye contact. Indirect eye contact, such as seeing the creature’s eyes through a reflection, a ghost, or a camera lens, causes petrification rather than death. The Basilisk is also enormously strong, heavily armoured with magical-resistant scales, and possesses venom of extraordinary potency.

Speakers of Parseltongue are the only witches or wizards capable of commanding a Basilisk.

Game Statistics

This is a general lore entry. For game statistics, see Adult Basilisk or Ancient Basilisk.

History

The first Basilisk was bred by Herpo the Foul in Ancient Greece, created by hatching a chicken egg beneath a toad. The practice of Basilisk breeding has been illegal since medieval times, though enforcement is complicated by the secrecy with which such acts are carried out.

A Basilisk can live for centuries if left undisturbed in a suitably secluded environment. The most famous example is the serpent placed by Salazar Slytherin within the Chamber of Secrets beneath Hogwarts, where it survived for roughly a thousand years before being slain.