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Pub trivia – fun facts you didn't know about wizarding inns

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__Spoiler warning! There are some mild spoilers ahead – turn back now if you’re not familiar with the stories…__

## The Leaky Cauldron is the oldest pub in London

Despite what many [Muggles](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggles) think, the title of oldest pub in London goes to this well-loved wizarding establishment. Found on Charing Cross Road, the [Leaky Cauldron](/fact-file/locations/the-leaky-cauldron) was built in the 1500s – long before Charing Cross Road was even planned! Its true address is number one, [Diagon Alley](/fact-file/locations/diagon-alley).

## Muggles used to frequent the Leaky Cauldron

This wizarding institution wasn’t always a place that where only magical folk congregated. As it was built two centuries before the imposition of the International Statute of Secrecy, it was initially visible to Muggle eyes too. Muggles weren’t made to feel unwelcome or turned away. Having said that, thanks to the *interesting* conversations and even more *interesting* magical pets, many scarpered before finishing their mead.

![LeakyCauldron WB F1 SomeoneOutsideLeakyCauldron Illust 080615 Land](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5sxx5inySIAWsKA0gcuUEG/ca736eb81e715e092136f42c579a2719/LeakyCauldron_WB_F1_SomeoneOutsideLeakyCauldron_Illust_080615_Land.jpg)

## Neville Longbottom and Hannah Abbott lived above the Leaky Cauldron

In a turn of events that we find extremely adorable, after leaving [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) not only did [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) continue his passion for magical plants as [Herbology](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/herbology) professor, but he also married [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff), [Hannah Abbott](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hannah-abbott-fact-file). The happy couple decided to make a home for themselves living above the one-and-only Leaky Cauldron.

## A pub was the headquarters of a rebellion

Although we never learnt which one it was, according to *Sites of Historical Sorcery*, one of the wizarding pubs in [Hogsmeade](/fact-file/locations/hogsmeade) was said to have been the headquarters of the 1612 [goblin](/fact-file/creatures/goblin) rebellion. Could it have been the [Hog’s Head Inn](/fact-file/locations/the-hogs-head) which was known for its dubious dealings and schemes? Or perhaps it was the cosiness of the [Three Broomsticks](/fact-file/locations/the-three-broomsticks) that convinced the goblins to make it their base?

![pottermore-moments-hp-b5-hogs-head-homepage-hero](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/2zygTLqXtChkWM7Asbbca3/14624eac244b6e0d0dd667458176dd1a/pottermore-moments-hp-b5-hogs-head-homepage-hero.jpg)

## The Hog’s Head Inn was run by a Dumbledore

While [Albus Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) ran Hogwarts, just down the road his brother, [Aberforth Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/aberforth-dumbledore-fact-file), ran the Hog’s Head Inn. Crochety and a big fan of goats, he and his brother didn’t always see eye-to-eye. Ultimately, they were both extremely good people and Aberforth even helped the resistance at Hogwarts after Albus’ death – thanks to a secret passage that connected the [Room of Requirement](/fact-file/locations/the-room-of-requirement) to his pub.

## Sybill Trelawney made her infamous prediction at the Hog’s Head Inn

The Hog’s Head Inn was the location of many crucial story moments from the founding of [Dumbledore’s Army](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/dumbledores-army) to [Hagrid](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rubeus-hagrid) winning a dragon egg in a game of cards. However, there was one particular moment that changed the course of wizarding history forever. On a gloomy night, Albus Dumbledore went to interview [Sybill Trelawney](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/sybill-trelawney) for the role of [Divination](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/divination) teacher. He was thoroughly unimpressed until, among the ramshackle décor and sticky floor, she made her prediction about the boy destined to end [Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) and rid the world of his evil!

![pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/YvfQFf3Sc7Y1rQNcmqoKm/7278f0704d0a659047a66375127ed129/pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero.jpg)

## Katie Bell was given the cursed opal necklace at The Three Broomsticks

Run by Madam Rosmerta, the Three Broomsticks was a warm and welcoming establishment in Hogsmeade. Yet Dark Magic still managed to worm its way in there in the form of the cursed opal necklace. Part of a clumsy attempt on Dumbledore’s life, [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) Quidditch team member, [Katie Bell](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/katie-bell), took the necklace from the pub while under the influence of the [Imperius Curse](/fact-file/spells/the-imperius-curse) and narrowly escaped its deadly power.

## It wasn’t just witches and wizards who frequented the Three Broomsticks

Said to be as old as the only all-wizard village in Britain, the Three Broomsticks was a bit of a haven for all sorts of magical beings, such as hags, who couldn’t disguise themselves particularly well in the Muggle world. In fact, Ron and Hermione once thought they spotted an ogre!

Every quote to live by from your favourite witches

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Hermione wearing a red dress and smiling at Bill and Fleur's wedding.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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## The importance of keeping things in perspective

![HP-F1-philosophers-stone-hermione-charms-learning-classroom-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/qVjLFPXczR2mwGR54M1JK/5ffbc10854b90be415e66d18504a0f56/HP-F1-philosophers-stone-hermione-charms-learning-classroom-web-landscape)

‘Books! And cleverness! There are more important things – friendship and bravery…’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

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Despite being known for her exceptional brain power, [Hermione](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger) also knew the importance of nurturing the other elements of her personality too. It’s a lesson she learnt in her first year after finding genuine friendship. It is also one that we could do with remembering too.

## Don’t be afraid to be bold

![HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-ginny-da-wand-determined-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3yxtbUPaKL5YRyOXEmcss7/b5f3840e6afd0c2e76548570d0532593/HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-ginny-da-wand-determined-web-landscape)

‘…anything’s possible if you’ve got enough nerve.'

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Ginny Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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If you don’t ask you don’t get! As [Ginny](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley) reminds us, if we shy away from a challenge, we’re never going to achieve our dreams. If we find our courage? Well, the world is our oyster.

## Be proud of who you are

![HP-F4-goblet-of-fire-mcgonagall-desk-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/71JqjFqxFPKBLmoFUGKYJD/22d4d28400d268c5d1382d675b5ce1ae/HP-F4-goblet-of-fire-mcgonagall-desk-web-landscape)

‘It’s high time your grandmother learned to be proud of the grandson she’s got, rather than the one she thinks she ought to have...’

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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The no-nonsense [McGonagall](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/minerva-mcgonagall) was a witch worth listening to! It’s all too easy to get caught up in the comparison trap, trying to think about who you *should* be and feeling inadequate next to others. However, you are brilliant just the way you are. You are one-of-a-kind. If the Head of [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) can see that – so can you.

## There is always hope

![HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-luna-da-room-of-requirement-casting-patronus-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5zrwB81bovDEUXWbMyCWia/26babee3a72e41ff8557681a28703f5a/HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-luna-da-room-of-requirement-casting-patronus-web-landscape)

‘The things we lose have a way of coming back to us in the end. If not always in the way we expect.’

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Luna Lovegood: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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When times are hard, it can be easy to give up hope and become despondent. Yet this poignant point from the wonderfully eccentric [Ravenclaw](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/ravenclaw) is a reminder that good days are on the horizon – even if we can’t quite see them yet.

## Don’t be afraid to dream big

![WB-HP-F7-hermione-reading-promo-crop](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7uWvZ2RIgkybj8J1lCs5RA/39672ce02de6ff4e27d39381deb3c05f/WB-HP-F7-hermione-reading-promo-crop.jpg)

‘I’m hoping to do some good in the world!’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

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No matter who you are, you *can* make a difference. If you channel Hermione’s determination, we’re sure you will go on to do great and brilliant things.

## An excellent reminder

![HP-F5-molly-weasley-harry-potter-web-10744](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/1ugOAEKJsmxHxy7rDSEkO8/d6f828346ab08de9e2eb69ed086fdf71/weasley-quiz-title-.jpg)

‘A good first impression can work wonders.'

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Molly Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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A sage piece of advice from [Mrs Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/molly-weasley)! She might have said this to Harry before his [Ministry](/fact-file/locations/the-ministry-of-magic) hearing, but we think this is something that can be applied to many different areas of your life. From making friends to job interviews, things are always easier if you start off on the right foot.

## Do what is right, not what is easy

![WB-HP-F2-hermione-examining-potion-ingredients-with-cauldron-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4L5hkIozTd68acqd3hpP2I/27590dc492caea34621b56bdd472e45b/WB-HP-F2-hermione-examining-potion-ingredients-with-cauldron-web-landscape.jpg)

‘Well, if you two are going to chicken out, fine… I don’t want to break rules, you know. I think threatening Muggle-borns is far worse than brewing up a difficult potion.’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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Hermione was the witch who once declared being expelled to be a fate worse than death. To hear her trying to convince [Harry](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) and [Ron](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) to break the rules was rather shocking. Yet she raises an extremely valuable point. Sometimes you need to push the boundaries to do what is right. Following the rules can only go so far – especially if those rules cause more harm than good. It can be hard to stand up and be counted but we should all try to do so.

## Protect what is important

![WB-HP-F8-professor-sprout-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/6PcDR4xjlhQ8xtErVUHYBc/198864f4ef4413d1ed6e50f91411088e/WB-HP-F8-professor-sprout-web-landscape.jpg)

‘I feel that if a single pupil wants to come, then the school ought to remain open for that pupil.’

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Pomona Sprout: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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This was a brave statement from [Professor Sprout](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/pomona-sprout) in the wake of [Dumbledore’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) death. [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) was so much more than a school. For many like Harry, it was a sanctuary and place they could call home. A place that should be protected. This is a sentiment we could all take on board. We should all work hard to take care of what, and who, is important to us.

## Don’t judge a book by its cover

![hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7L4Bw903CP5Rnv0MuCknWF/16abc8334d6185d0b8be2af4c5f93c45/hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape.jpg)

‘What do I care how ’e looks? I am good-looking enough for both of us, I theenk! All these scars show is zat my husband is brave!’

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Fleur Delacour: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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You might think glamorous and goodlooking [Fleur Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour) would also be extremely vain. Yet she wasn’t. Filled with self-confidence, she didn’t judge her husband based on his appearance – she knew it was the content of his character that truly mattered. That attitude is one we think everyone should embody.

## Boundaries are good

![mcgonagall-web-header-wand](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/6J6heLMpK9Lee0eL8faPnj/18ebb3e1a6694c1ed440bf094b02a127/mcgonagall-web-headrer.jpg)

‘I do not generally permit people to talk when I am talking.’

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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Quite right too! Don’t let anybody try to take your voice or diminish you. If someone tries to talk over you, channel your inner McGonagall and lay down the law – they’ll soon learn a valuable lesson.

Your birth month tells us your Harry Potter soulmate

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## January: The determined and dedicated Oliver Wood is your perfect match

![WB-HP-F1-philosophers-stone-oliver-wood-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7iJHeRIUbca989dspC4c2t/a8eae533de5cb364c2b8ef17aa39c857/WB-HP-F1-philosophers-stone-oliver-wood-web-landscape.jpg)

When considering your ideal partner, you don’t want someone who is afraid of commitment and isn’t willing to put the work in. You want someone who is going to give the relationship their all. This is why you and [Oliver Wood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/oliver-wood) make a perfect pair. This [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) proved his determination time and time again as [Quidditch](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/quidditch) Captain. He was always coming up with training techniques and drills to make the team better. Yes, some of his teammates might have complained about the early starts, but it didn’t put Oliver off… and it worked. That’s the type of dedication you admire.

## February: Your soulmate is the creative and eccentric Luna Lovegood

![WB-HP-F5-luna-lovegood-wears-spectrespecs-with-quibbler-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5jiVEF9rz3GdDt6go666da/6431193cd66631881320a9921f2913fe/WB-HP-F5-luna-lovegood-wears-spectrespecs-with-quibbler-web-landscape.jpg)

There is nothing that bores you more than blending into the crowd. From your curious insights to your wacky wardrobe, you march to the beat of your own drum. You are proud to celebrate your uniqueness, and you are looking for a partner that doesn’t shy away from their individuality too. This is why [Luna Lovegood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/luna-lovegood) with her [Spectrespecs](/fact-file/objects/spectrespecs) and radish-like earrings is your ideal match. The two of you would have a joyful relationship that celebrated creativity, eccentricity and a shared belief in the Crumple-Horned Snorkack.

## March: The brilliantly hilarious Ron Weasley is the one for you

![HP-F6-ron-in-bed-smiling-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/51khMqIDGh7ltBpFgDIet4/4390b7228f2368b128a11304e8a73108/HP-F6-ron-in-bed-smiling-web-landscape.jpg)

Life’s too short not to have fun. Who wants to be miserable? Yes, serious things happen but you still want to find the joy in life, and you want a partner who can do that too. This is why you and [Ron Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) would make the perfect pair. From his ‘Merlin's most baggy Y-fronts’ exclamations to quippy ‘Oh, of course… I forgot we’ll be hunting down [Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) in a mobile library’ comebacks – his quick with would keep you entertained for life.

## April: The elegant and poised Fleur Delacour is your ideal soulmate

![hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7L4Bw903CP5Rnv0MuCknWF/16abc8334d6185d0b8be2af4c5f93c45/hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape.jpg)

Graceful, elegant and gliding through life – that’s the ultimate dream. You aren’t interested in awkward situations and embarrassing encounters; you want life to be as serene as possible. As you want this from your partner too, you and [Fleur Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour) would make a flawless duo. No matter what situation she faced – from walking into the [Great Hall](/fact-file/locations/the-great-hall) for the first time to rejecting [Yule Ball](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/yule-ball) dates, she was always perfectly poised which is something you appreciate.

## May: The thoroughly good Cedric Diggory is who you’re drawn to

![HP-F4-goblet-fire-cho-cedric-walking-into-yule-ball-together-happy-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7Gg3rW3wpho401kh28ueXG/2ce6bdeb293a9f962407b31ab38c3c2b/HP-F4-goblet-fire-cho-cedric-walking-into-yule-ball-together-happy-web-landscape)

You have no time for people that like to play games in relationships. You abhor anyone who has a mean streak. You really can’t stand when people are rude to those around them. This is why [Cedric Diggory](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/cedric-diggory) is the perfect person for you. Despite being handsome, intelligent and an extremely talented wizard, this [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff) was also humble. He was *good*. He helped Harry despite him being his [Triwizard](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament) rival and never let being the rising star at [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) go to his head. Cedric is a partner you would always feel safe with… and he is perfect for you.

## June: Your soulmate is Lavender Brown who wears her heart on her sleeve

![HP-F6-half-blood-prince-weasleys-wizard-wheezes-lavendar-looking-at-ron-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/41iicwNjHTdrMVNZoiTdoC/ddf961f7074d912a9307c0dc9e2716aa/HP-F6-half-blood-prince-weasleys-wizard-wheezes-lavendar-looking-at-ron-web-landscape)

As someone who is often described as vivacious and an open book, you have real difficulty bonding with people who are closed off or reserved. You find those who keep their cards close to their chest rather unsettling – which is why [Lavender Brown](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lavender-brown) is your soulmate. Whether she was snogging Ron in front of the whole [Gryffindor common room](/fact-file/locations/the-gryffindor-common-room) or giving him gaudy necklaces as a token of her affection, she was not afraid of her emotions or letting everyone else see them. This type of openness is something you can’t help but be drawn to.

## July: Your perfect match is loyal Neville Longbottom

![HP WB F4 Neville and his plant crop ](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/66z5lwGFVYTJTiW2dNdKfw/e99e49796545303b7dec644c11004840/NevilleLongbottom_WB_F4_NevilleLongbottomWithPlantPromoShot_Promo_080615_CROP.jpg)

Don’t underestimate [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom). He might have initially been a clumsy underdog, but he soon surpassed that and became a [sword-of-Gryffindor-wielding](/fact-file/objects/the-sword-of-gryffindor) hero. One who was loyal to his friends, his school and loyal to what was right. As someone born in July, this is what you would like to find in a partner. You don’t want a person who could easily be swayed. You want someone who is as committed to you as Neville is to his [Mimbulus mimbletonia](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/mimbulus-mimbletonia), which is why he is the one for you.

## August: The logical and intelligent Hermione Granger is the one for you

![HP-F7-deathly-hallows-part-one-hermione-bill-fleur-wedding-red-dress-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5aJclseoYsrr4a0y0XPiQY/be44e1bfabc2a5f7422ed6e87a5df30e/HP-F7-deathly-hallows-part-one-hermione-bill-fleur-wedding-red-dress-web-landscape)

As somebody who is known for their sharp mind and love of learning, we think you and the [cleverest witch of her age](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger), who takes the largest books out of the [Hogwarts library](/fact-file/locations/the-hogwarts-library) for ‘light reading’, would get on like a house on fire. Your days would be spent verbally sparring with each other, debating Ancient Rune translations and generally broadening your minds and you wouldn’t want it any other way.

## September: The discerning Draco Malfoy is your wizarding soulmate

![WB-F3-draco-in-care-of-magical-creatures-with-monster-book-of-monsters-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4FeDA9gWYlkm3iFXZMUOF5/47927d38da6fcc8d4660a5cd92a7e6d6/WB-F3-draco-in-care-of-magical-creatures-with-monster-book-of-monsters-web-landscape.jpg)

There’s nothing wrong with being shrewd or ambitious, these are traits that you rather admire. In fact, you find someone who knows exactly what they want and how to get it extremely attractive. This is why [Draco Malfoy](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/draco-malfoy) is the one for you. We are in no way saying you are prejudiced or a bully like he was. However, the embodiment of [Slytherin](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/slytherin) traits, he was not afraid to openly say he liked the finer things in life or believe he deserved them – just like you.

## October: Fiery Ginny Weasley is your magical match

![GinnyWeasley WB F6 GinnyAtSlughornsParty Still 080615 Land](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4otWY19HKE4WyOOy4Q0wSu/66177ea78a84f5e28b9fb79b2b961e51/GinnyWeasley_WB_F6_GinnyAtSlughornsParty_Still_080615_Land.jpg)

If there was a witch that knew exactly who she was, it was [Ginny Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley). Having had a rough start at Hogwarts she blossomed into a fierce and phenomenal person – with an excellent talent for the [Bat-Bogey Hex](/fact-file/spells/the-bat-bogey-hex). That self-assuredness is something that you are looking for in a partner. You don’t want somebody who doesn’t take the time to work on being the best version of themselves. You want someone who is confident and powerful – exactly like Ginny.

## November: Harry Potter’s bravery is what makes him your soulmate

![HP-F8-harry-lake-web-header](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3SzHQWDxZAPjea1KYpaIO0/cc24a62a6e35937f165b190cf14df8e6/harry_heaer.png)

[Harry Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) is not afraid to confront the difficult things in life. He doesn’t shy away from a challenge or let fear stop him. He puts himself out there whether that’s soaring through the sky on his [broomstick](/fact-file/objects/broomstick), fighting the forces of evil or summoning up the courage to ask his crush to the Yule Ball. This is something that you strongly relate to. You’re not one to be called timid and you can’t stand cowardice. We’re not saying you’re necessarily an extrovert, but you stand up when it matters and that’s why Harry is your ultimate wizarding soulmate.

## December: The glass half-empty Moaning Myrtle is your perfect match

![HP-F2-chamber-of-secrets-moaning-myrtle-girls-bathroom-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/2HdGuqY9aOgGStQJii0yVY/5013a2d38cecb8e9f536e42f6dbf0036/HP-F2-chamber-of-secrets-moaning-myrtle-girls-bathroom-web-landscape.jpg)

There is no person that gets on your nerves more than the one who is relentlessly optimistic. You don’t have time from all that chirpiness and being constantly told to look on the bright side. In fact, being stuck with someone like that would be your worst nightmare. You want someone who will always look on the gloomy side – which is why [Moaning Myrtle](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/moaning-myrtle) (emphasis on the *Moaning*) is your perfect match. Despite her crush on Harry Potter, with your maudlin outlook, we’re sure you could win her over and many (un)happy centuries sitting in the [u-bend of a Hogwarts toilet](/fact-file/locations/moaning-myrtles-bathroom) discussing all the reasons why everything is awful.

For beginners, for novices, for Harry Potter superfans going 20 years-strong, dig deep into the wizarding world with our collection of features.

Features - Wizarding World

10 things you might not have known about the Hogwarts Express

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*Stop right there! This article contains spoilers from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child!*

## 1. Before the Hogwarts Express came to be, students got to school any way they fancied 

According to [J.K. Rowling’s piece on the Hogwarts Express](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/kings-cross-station), she explains what life was like for Hogwarts students before the train’s creation. Some students took brooms, others commandeered enchanted carts and some students tried riding magical creatures. Apparition did also occur – but it is never recommended, due to Hogwarts having several anti-Apparition charms cast upon it.

## 2. The Minister for Magic, Ottaline Gambol, conceptualised the idea of the Hogwarts Express

Eventually, it was up to the Minister for Magic of the time, Ottaline Gambol, to introduce a mode of travel that all students could take far more easily. After all, several Muggle sightings of travelling students often occurred – and after the Statute of Secrecy was put in place in 1692, things needed to become far more discreet. For a while, the trick was Portkeys, which were strategically placed all over Britain, but students ended up getting Portkey-sick or missing their time slots altogether... So Ottaline Gambol, a fan of Muggle inventions, suggested the idea of a train. 

## 3. The logistics surrounding the Hogwarts Express involved a top-secret operation from the Ministry of Magic 

It has never been proven where the Hogwarts Express was acquired from, although it is said that a group of bemused Muggle railway workers in Crewe felt like ‘they had mislaid something important’ shortly after the Hogwarts Express magically appeared in the village of Hogsmeade, which also didn’t previously have a railway station. It is said that the Ministry of Magic performed the country’s biggest ever Concealment Charm and one hundred and sixty-seven Memory Charms in order to bring the Hogwarts Express to the wizarding world.

## 4. And there was resistance from various wizarding families around the Hogwarts Express

And yet, after all that effort, certain pure-blood wizards and witches strongly disliked the idea of a Muggle mode of transport taking their children to school, deeming the Hogwarts Express unsafe and demeaning. The Ministry waved off such complaints, saying it was either this or they didn’t go to Hogwarts at all, which seemed to swiftly silence people who had a problem.

## 5. Across the Harry Potter books, we very rarely see adults riding the train
The Hogwarts Express really is designed for young students to get to Hogwarts – but we have seen a number of Hogwarts staff take the train too, such as Remus Lupin and Horace Slughorn, who used the opportunity to acquire new Slug Club members on his journey.

## 6. In the Harry Potter films, the Hogwarts Express is portrayed by the GWR 4900 Class 5972  Olton Hall

The amazing scarlet steam engine was brought to life in the Harry Potter films, and it is based on a real-life locomotive. The Great Western Railway model was built in the 1930s and was painted red for its role in the films. (It is usually a green train!) 

## 7. Harry met Ron, Hermione, Neville and Luna on the Hogwarts Express 

We all know that Harry met his two future best friends, Ron and Hermione, on the Hogwarts Express, after both turned up in his compartment at one point or another. But Harry also met two other very close friends there – including Neville (looking for his lost toad) and Luna, who was reading a Quibbler upside down. 

## 8. And a young Albus Potter met Scorpius here too 

History repeated itself when Harry’s son, Albus, met his future best friend, Scorpius Malfoy, on the Hogwarts Express in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Much like Harry and Ron, the pair bonded over sweets! 

## 9. King’s Cross Station usually has plain-clothed Ministry of Magic employees patrolling the area 

Due to students having to slip between platforms nine and ten at King’s Cross Station to get to the Hogwarts Express, there have inevitably been wizarding faux pas’ over the years, such as students dropping biting spellbooks or spilling potions ingredients. As you might imagine, there are disguised Ministry members on hand to perform hasty Memory Charms, if required.

## 10. The Trolley Witch was allegedly over 100 years old during the events of Cursed Child 

After trying to escape the Hogwarts Express, Scorpius and Albus have to confront the usually friendly Trolley Witch, who goes to great lengths to stop them. During the altercation, she revealed she had worked on the train ever since the Hogwarts Express began, which would make her extremely old, even for a witch. By Scorpius’s calculations, she would’ve been working on the train for 190 years! That’s a lot of Pumpkin Pasties she’s had to get through...

***

You can find out how we are celebrating Back to Hogwarts season 2023, be it physically or digitally, [right here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/back-to-hogwarts). You can also sign up to our handy newsletter at the [Harry Potter Fan Club](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register), to be kept constantly in the loop.

This glorious scarlet steam engine takes Harry from the Muggle to the magical. But how much do you know about the Hogwarts Express’s history?

Five of the funniest times house points were lost

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Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

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and the Prisoner of Azkaban

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## The time a crocodile was involved…
It’s always fun when a loathsome character like Malfoy gets their just desserts. And while we would never condone throwing things at people in anger… we can’t help by laugh at the image of a crocodile heart flying through the air and landing on Malfoy’s face. It almost makes the loss of fifty points seem worth it…

>Malfoy spent much of their next Potions class doing Dementor imitations across the dungeon; Ron finally cracked, flinging a large, slippery crocodile heart at Malfoy, which hit him in the face and caused Snape to take fifty points from Gryffindor. 
> *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*

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Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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and the Chamber of Secrets

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## When Malfoy’s Dementor impression didn’t quite go to plan… 
This was another moment where Malfoy didn’t end up looking too good – and this time it was his turn to lose points! We think it is absolutely brilliant that Harry managed to conjure a Patronus while playing Quidditch and adored the chaos it caused to those playing the prank. The thought of Malfoy, Crabbe, Goyle and Flint all piled up on the ground, and flailing around at the feet of a furious McGonagall, is too perfect.

>Harry stared. Lying in a crumpled heap on the ground were Malfoy, Crabbe, Goyle and Marcus Flint, the Slytherin team captain, all struggling to remove themselves from long, black, hooded robes. It looked as though Malfoy had been standing on Goyle’s shoulders. Standing over them, with an expression of the utmost fury on her face, was Professor McGonagall. 
>
>‘An unworthy trick!’ she was shouting. ‘A low and cowardly attempt to sabotage the Gryffindor Seeker! Detention for all of you, and fifty points from Slytherin! I shall be speaking to Professor Dumbledore about this, make no mistake! Ah, here he comes now!’ 
>
>If anything could have set the seal on Gryffindor’s victory, it was this. Ron, who had fought his way through to Harry’s side, doubled up with laughter as they watched Malfoy fighting to extricate himself from the robe, Goyle’s head still stuck inside it. 
> *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*

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Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

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and the Goblet of Fire

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## The time Montague ended up who knows where…
Ok, so we aren’t entirely sure if this one counts – but it was so funny we had to include it. Fred and George were the kings of mischief, so it is only right that they made an appearance on our list. With Umbridge’s Inquisitorial Squad roaming the halls and docking points, it was only a matter of time before they ended up on the wrong side of those they had mistreated. And (un)luckily for Montague, he probably had weeks to sit and reflect on what he had done…

>‘Malfoy just docked us all about fifty points,’ said Harry furiously, as they watched several more stones fly upwards from the Gryffindor hourglass. 
>
>‘Yeah, Montague tried to do us during break,’ said George. 
>
>‘What do you mean, “tried”?’ said Ron quickly.
>
>‘He never managed to get all the words out,’ said Fred, ‘due to the fact that we forced him head-first into that Vanishing Cabinet on the first floor.’ 
>
>Hermione looked very shocked.
>
>‘But you’ll get into terrible trouble!’
>
>‘Not until Montague reappears, and that could take weeks, I dunno where we sent him,’ said Fred coolly. 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

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Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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and the Half-Blood Prince

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## The time Ron decided sarcasm was the way forward…
Harry’s answer to Snape’s question about the difference between ghosts and Inferi was a little silly. However, Ron’s reaction to Snape’s smug explanation was brilliant. Dripping with sarcasm, he truly earned every one of those points he lost…

>‘The Inferius is a corpse that has been reanimated by a Dark wizard’s spells. It is not alive, it is merely used like a puppet to do the wizard’s bidding. A ghost, as I trust that you are all aware by now, is the imprint of a departed soul left upon the earth ... and of course, as Potter so wisely tells us, transparent.’ 
>
>‘Well, what Harry said is the most useful if we’re trying to tell them apart!’ said Ron. ‘When we come face to face with one down a dark alley we’re going to be having a shufti to see if it’s solid, aren’t we, we’re not going to be asking, “Excuse me, are you the imprint of a departed soul?”’ 
>
>There was a ripple of laughter, instantly quelled by the look Snape gave the class. 
>‘Another ten points from Gryffindor,’ said Snape. 
> *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*

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## When McGonagall had just had enough of Harry’s nonsense 
Professor McGonagall was not a witch to be trifled with. She may be a Gryffindor, but she’s still not going to put up with Harry’s angsty attitude. We very much enjoyed her sharp comeback to Harry’s protestations at being docked points. Sorry Harry, next time you should probably heed your Head of House’s advice. 

>‘What’s this, Potter?’ said Professor McGonagall sharply, rounding on Harry. ‘Detention? From whom?’ 
>
>‘From Professor Umbridge,’ muttered Harry, not meeting Professor McGonagall’s beady, square-framed eyes. 
>
>‘Are you telling me,’ she said, lowering her voice so that the group of curious Ravenclaws behind them could not hear, ‘that after the warning I gave you last Monday you lost your temper in Professor Umbridge’s class again?’ 
>
>‘Yes,’ Harry muttered, speaking to the floor. 
>
>‘Potter, you must get a grip on yourself! You are heading for serious trouble! Another five points from Gryffindor!’ 
>
>‘But – what –? Professor, no!’ Harry said, furious at this injustice, ‘I’m already being punished by her, why do you have to take points as well?’ 
>
>‘Because detentions do not appear to have any effect on you whatsoever!’ said Professor McGonagall tartly. 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

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## Special mention...
We have to give a special mention to what could be considered one of Harry’s funniest moments. While Harry’s witty comment didn’t result in him losing house points, it did result in a detention – so we still think it deserves a shout out for being truly perfect.

>‘Do you remember me telling you we are practising non- verbal spells, Potter?’ 
>
>‘Yes,’ said Harry stiffly.
>
>‘Yes sir.’
>
>‘There’s no need to call me “sir”, Professor.’
> *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*

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Inside Fantastic Beasts: The Wonder of Nature

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__This article is an extract from Issue 44 of the Natural History Museum's Evolve Magazine, written by Kate Whittington. For more information on Membership, visit www.nhm.ac.uk/membership__

This December, you’re invited to enter an extraordinary world where mythical animals roam, where spiky fossils look like dragon skulls, and where natural curiosities are revealed.

Our new exhibition – Fantastic Beasts: The Wonder of Nature – celebrates creatures, real and magical, through the lens of J.K. Rowling’s spellbinding world of magic and adventure.

In the wizarding world, Newt Scamander is a Magizoologist on a mission to study and describe magical animals in his book, *Fantastic Beasts and
Where to Find Them*. Step into our exhibition, created in partnership with Warner Bros., and you’ll follow in his footsteps, surrounded by props
from the Fantastic Beasts films and real specimens from the Museum’s collections.

Uncover the origins of mythical animals, explore parallels between the remarkable creatures Newt cares for and real-life species, and discover how we’re fighting to protect them.

## ZONE 1: FROM DRAGONS TO DINOSAURS

For centuries, humans have whispered tales of mysterious creatures. Some are terrible and fierce, others pure and benevolent, and many boast remarkable magical properties.

Mythological creatures such as unicorns, dragons, merpeople
and sea serpents are given a wizarding-world twist in the pages
of *Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them*. But could they have
their origins in nature?

Scholars think that early descriptions of these extraordinary creatures may have been inspired or reinforced by encounters with real, but unfamiliar, wild animals. So for each fantastic beast, the exhibition explores the real-life species that may be responsible for the myths.

The most iconic of these creatures is the dragon. Its likeness appears in many cultures throughout the ages. Could this firebreathing behemoth be inspired by snakes or crocodiles with their smooth scales, long tails, sharp teeth and often impressive sizes?

Or might human imagination have conjured up giant reptilian creatures after seeing strange bones pulled from the earth?

## MEET THE HOGWARTS DINOSAUR

In 2004, a spectacular dinosaur skull was discovered in the Hell Creek Formation of South Dakota in the US. It bore a close resemblance to a Western fairytale dragon, with its bony head covered in spikes
and knobs.

Fossil collectors Brian Buckmeier and brothers Steve and Pat Saulsbury donated their find to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and, in
2006, a team of scientists formally described the new species. Inspired by its dragon-like appearance, they named it Dracorex hogwartsia, which translates as the ‘dragon king of Hogwarts’, in honour of Harry Potter’s
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Dracorex proved to be a type of ‘bone-headed’ dinosaur known as a pachycephalosaur. Despite its fearsome spiked skull, these dinosaurs are thought to have been mainly plant-eaters that lived sociably in small groups. As with many herd animals, individuals may have competed with each other for mates.

Indeed, the vertebrae show evidence of strong neck muscles that supported its flat-topped head. Experts think Dracorex may have fought by pressing their heads together and pushing, using upward thrusts to force their opponent backwards, a behaviour seen in some types of cows today.

The ridges and knobs on the skull of Dracorex may also have helped to stop its head slipping when pressed against another’s in a battle of strength.
Scientists have speculated that Dracorex may have used its horns to gore the flank of its opponents or in defence against predators, a behaviour seen in modern-day antelope known as oryx. Though it may not have been able to breathe fire like a mythical dragon, Dracorex was clearly not a dinosaur to be messed with.

Thanks to modern scientific techniques, we can infer how a dinosaur might have behaved from a fossil. Yet take one look at the extraordinary Dracorex skull in the exhibition and you’ll see why people pulling fossils
from the ground hundreds of years ago might have taken them for enormous, horned reptiles.

## ZONE 2: AMAZING ABILITIES

Leaving behind creatures of ancient legend, the next step on your journey of discovery takes in modern-day marvels. Like many real-life naturalists, Newt Scamander travels the world observing the remarkable adaptations and abilities of his fantastic beasts in their natural environments. From the Mooncalf’s elusive lifestyle to the Demiguise’s ability to vanish, and the Niffler’s compulsive collecting to the Erumpent’s fondness for dance, all of these ‘magical’ powers have parallels among real-life animals.

## THE OCCAMY

Newt describes the Occamy as a ‘plumed, two-legged winged creature with a serpentine body’. He explains that the Occamy is ‘choranaptyxic’, a word invented by Rowling to describe the animal’s magical ability to
change its size to fit the available space. Though the instant and dramatic shape-shifting displayed by the Occamy – which expands to fill a room and then shrinks to fit into a teapot – has not been observed in real
animals, some species can alter their size and shape in surprising and impressive ways.

When threatened by a predator, the porcupinefish can triple the volume of its body by drawing water into its extremely stretchy stomach. Its skin is covered in sharp spines, which are forced upright as the fish
expands.

Faced with a large, spiky ball, most predators will think twice before trying to take a bite. While porcupinefish expand to avoid death, queen
termites expand to produce life. The queen begins life around 17mm long, the same size as most other termites. But once the queen has mated, its body grows to up to seven times its original size. When its abdomen is around the size of a human finger, it’s too large to leave its small underground cell. The queen will remain there for the rest of its life, being cared for by its normalsized offspring, while it lays around one egg every three seconds.

That’s about 30,000 eggs a day and as many as 219 million eggs in its roughly 20-year lifespan. The queen produces the entire colony, hatching workers that build the termite mound, collect food and nurse young, soldiers that defend the colony, and winged adults that start new colonies of their own.

While the Occamy’s ability to expand is not unheard of in nature, shrinking is a much rarer and more challenging biological feat. Galapagos marine iguanas have adapted to shrink during times of stress. Living on the rocky coasts of the Galapagos islands, these lizards feed only on algae and seaweed. During El Niño years – a periodic warming of sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean – the iguana’s food becomes scarce.

Their usual diet of green and red algae is replaced by brown algae, which they struggle to digest. Scientists measuring the lizards’ body lengths noticed they became shorter by up to 7cm, around 20 per cent of their regular length. If the average person were to shrink by 20 per cent, they would become around 33cm shorter.

It’s thought that by reducing in size, marine iguanas can reduce their need for food and therefore expend less precious energy foraging. When their favourite food regrows, the iguanas return to their original length. The shrinking process can take up to two years, so it’s not as
fast as the magical Occamy, but still a remarkable feat.

## ZONE 3: PROTECTING FANTASTIC BEASTS

Newt’s book, *Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them*, is not just an ID guide – it aims to inspire his fellow wizards to love and protect all magical creatures. He explains that many magical beasts are hunted for their valuable horns or silver eggs, or are persecuted due to fear or misunderstanding. So we felt it was important that the exhibition highlights some real-life endangered creatures and reveals how – just like Newt – conservationists are working to change people’s opinions in order to save ‘unpopular’ species from extinction.

When developing any exhibition, many ideas are explored and developed that don’t make the final line-up. Outside of the exhibition, it’s been interesting to learn about some of the wizarding world’s less
charismatic beasts, and explore how our perceptions of animals can influence the way we treat them and, as a result, affect their survival.

In the wizarding world, [werewolves are outcasts](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/werewolves), and people living with the condition are seen as evil and corrupt. In the Harry Potter series, the character Remus Lupin was a Hogwarts Professor and a werewolf.

Unbeknown to many, Lupin struggled with his ‘furry little problem’ until he was eventually forced to resign from Hogwarts when his condition was revealed. However, Lupin was the first werewolf to be awarded the Order of Merlin, and his kindness and courage helped challenge the stigma faced by
all werewolves.

In real-world mythology, werewolves are similarly feared and reviled, and some people feel the same antipathy to their natural world counterpart, the wolf.

Whether they’re depicted as evil, gluttonous predators, respected hunters, or symbols of wildness, wolves stir strong feelings in many cultures. Popular Western fairy tales such as Little Red Riding Hood and The Three Little Pigs cast wolves as sly and untrustworthy predators to be defeated. 

However, unlike werewolves, wolves are highly unlikely to
attack humans, though occasional depredations on farmers’ livestock can bring them into conflict with local communities.

In response, humans have driven wolves to extinction across much of their natural range.

Yet these top predators are incredibly important to the health and diversity of their environment, and help control populations of grazing animals, such as deer. With rewilding initiatives on the rise, wolves are
steadily returning to much of their former European range. As populations recover, conservationists are trying to find ways to help us live with the ‘Big Bad Wolf’ once more.

## WHAT’S IN A NAME?

From killer whales to vampire bats, the names we give to animals can have a lasting negative influence on how they’re perceived. In the wizarding world, the unfortunately named ‘Swooping Evil’ is feared for its ability to suck the brains out of its prey. However, its venom, when properly diluted, can be used to erase bad memories.

To counteract negative attitudes, scientists are trying using names to improve how we ‘see’ animals. Tom Saunders, an entomologist from the University of Auckland, wanted to challenge people’s dislike of wasps by naming a newly discovered species Lusius malfoyi, after the Harry Potter character Lucius Malfoy. Though widely considered a villain for his work as a Death-Eater under the Dark Lord, Voldemort, Malfoy later gives evidence against other Death-Eaters, aiding in their capture.

Humans can’t survive without nature, and as we discover more about how interconnected our world truly is, conservationists like Newt are working to transform our feelings from fear and dislike to respect and admiration when it comes to animals such as wasps, wolves, spiders and sharks. We hope the exhibition will help inspire a love of all beasts, furry,
scaled, slithering, flapping and crawling.

As Newt Scamander says: ‘Why do we continue… to attempt to protect and conceal magical beasts, even those that are savage and untameable? The answer is, of course, to ensure that future generations of witches
and wizards enjoy their strange beauty and powers as we have been privileged to do.’

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For centuries, humans have whispered tales of mysterious creatures. Some are terrible and fierce, others pure and benevolent, and many boast remarkable magical properties.

Mythological creatures such as unicorns, dragons, merpeople
and sea serpents are given a wizarding-world twist in the pages
of *Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them*. But could they have
their origins in nature?

Scholars think that early descriptions of these extraordinary creatures may have been inspired or reinforced by encounters with real, but unfamiliar, wild animals. So for each fantastic beast, the exhibition explores the real-life species that may be responsible for the myths.

The most iconic of these creatures is the dragon. Its likeness appears in many cultures throughout the ages. Could this firebreathing behemoth be inspired by snakes or crocodiles with their smooth scales, long tails, sharp teeth and often impressive sizes?

Or might human imagination have conjured up giant reptilian creatures after seeing strange bones pulled from the earth?

## MEET THE HOGWARTS DINOSAUR

In 2004, a spectacular dinosaur skull was discovered in the Hell Creek Formation of South Dakota in the US. It bore a close resemblance to a Western fairytale dragon, with its bony head covered in spikes
and knobs.

Fossil collectors Brian Buckmeier and brothers Steve and Pat Saulsbury donated their find to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and, in
2006, a team of scientists formally described the new species. Inspired by its dragon-like appearance, they named it Dracorex hogwartsia, which translates as the ‘dragon king of Hogwarts’, in honour of Harry Potter’s
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Dracorex proved to be a type of ‘bone-headed’ dinosaur known as a pachycephalosaur. Despite its fearsome spiked skull, these dinosaurs are thought to have been mainly plant-eaters that lived sociably in small groups. As with many herd animals, individuals may have competed with each other for mates.

Indeed, the vertebrae show evidence of strong neck muscles that supported its flat-topped head. Experts think Dracorex may have fought by pressing their heads together and pushing, using upward thrusts to force their opponent backwards, a behaviour seen in some types of cows today.

The ridges and knobs on the skull of Dracorex may also have helped to stop its head slipping when pressed against another’s in a battle of strength.
Scientists have speculated that Dracorex may have used its horns to gore the flank of its opponents or in defence against predators, a behaviour seen in modern-day antelope known as oryx. Though it may not have been able to breathe fire like a mythical dragon, Dracorex was clearly not a dinosaur to be messed with.

Thanks to modern scientific techniques, we can infer how a dinosaur might have behaved from a fossil. Yet take one look at the extraordinary Dracorex skull in the exhibition and you’ll see why people pulling fossils
from the ground hundreds of years ago might have taken them for enormous, horned reptiles.

## ZONE 2: AMAZING ABILITIES

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Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

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and Where to Find Them

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Leaving behind creatures of ancient legend, the next step on your journey of discovery takes in modern-day marvels. Like many real-life naturalists, Newt Scamander travels the world observing the remarkable adaptations and abilities of his fantastic beasts in their natural environments. From the Mooncalf’s elusive lifestyle to the Demiguise’s ability to vanish, and the Niffler’s compulsive collecting to the Erumpent’s fondness for dance, all of these ‘magical’ powers have parallels among real-life animals.

## THE OCCAMY

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Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: Occamy

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Newt describes the Occamy as a ‘plumed, two-legged winged creature with a serpentine body’. He explains that the Occamy is ‘choranaptyxic’, a word invented by Rowling to describe the animal’s magical ability to
change its size to fit the available space. Though the instant and dramatic shape-shifting displayed by the Occamy – which expands to fill a room and then shrinks to fit into a teapot – has not been observed in real
animals, some species can alter their size and shape in surprising and impressive ways.

When threatened by a predator, the porcupinefish can triple the volume of its body by drawing water into its extremely stretchy stomach. Its skin is covered in sharp spines, which are forced upright as the fish
expands.

Faced with a large, spiky ball, most predators will think twice before trying to take a bite. While porcupinefish expand to avoid death, queen
termites expand to produce life. The queen begins life around 17mm long, the same size as most other termites. But once the queen has mated, its body grows to up to seven times its original size. When its abdomen is around the size of a human finger, it’s too large to leave its small underground cell. The queen will remain there for the rest of its life, being cared for by its normalsized offspring, while it lays around one egg every three seconds.

That’s about 30,000 eggs a day and as many as 219 million eggs in its roughly 20-year lifespan. The queen produces the entire colony, hatching workers that build the termite mound, collect food and nurse young, soldiers that defend the colony, and winged adults that start new colonies of their own.

While the Occamy’s ability to expand is not unheard of in nature, shrinking is a much rarer and more challenging biological feat. Galapagos marine iguanas have adapted to shrink during times of stress. Living on the rocky coasts of the Galapagos islands, these lizards feed only on algae and seaweed. During El Niño years – a periodic warming of sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean – the iguana’s food becomes scarce.

Their usual diet of green and red algae is replaced by brown algae, which they struggle to digest. Scientists measuring the lizards’ body lengths noticed they became shorter by up to 7cm, around 20 per cent of their regular length. If the average person were to shrink by 20 per cent, they would become around 33cm shorter.

It’s thought that by reducing in size, marine iguanas can reduce their need for food and therefore expend less precious energy foraging. When their favourite food regrows, the iguanas return to their original length. The shrinking process can take up to two years, so it’s not as
fast as the magical Occamy, but still a remarkable feat.

## ZONE 3: PROTECTING FANTASTIC BEASTS

Newt’s book, *Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them*, is not just an ID guide – it aims to inspire his fellow wizards to love and protect all magical creatures. He explains that many magical beasts are hunted for their valuable horns or silver eggs, or are persecuted due to fear or misunderstanding. So we felt it was important that the exhibition highlights some real-life endangered creatures and reveals how – just like Newt – conservationists are working to change people’s opinions in order to save ‘unpopular’ species from extinction.

When developing any exhibition, many ideas are explored and developed that don’t make the final line-up. Outside of the exhibition, it’s been interesting to learn about some of the wizarding world’s less
charismatic beasts, and explore how our perceptions of animals can influence the way we treat them and, as a result, affect their survival.

In the wizarding world, [werewolves are outcasts](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/werewolves), and people living with the condition are seen as evil and corrupt. In the Harry Potter series, the character Remus Lupin was a Hogwarts Professor and a werewolf.

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Unbeknown to many, Lupin struggled with his ‘furry little problem’ until he was eventually forced to resign from Hogwarts when his condition was revealed. However, Lupin was the first werewolf to be awarded the Order of Merlin, and his kindness and courage helped challenge the stigma faced by
all werewolves.

In real-world mythology, werewolves are similarly feared and reviled, and some people feel the same antipathy to their natural world counterpart, the wolf.

Whether they’re depicted as evil, gluttonous predators, respected hunters, or symbols of wildness, wolves stir strong feelings in many cultures. Popular Western fairy tales such as Little Red Riding Hood and The Three Little Pigs cast wolves as sly and untrustworthy predators to be defeated. 

However, unlike werewolves, wolves are highly unlikely to
attack humans, though occasional depredations on farmers’ livestock can bring them into conflict with local communities.

In response, humans have driven wolves to extinction across much of their natural range.

Yet these top predators are incredibly important to the health and diversity of their environment, and help control populations of grazing animals, such as deer. With rewilding initiatives on the rise, wolves are
steadily returning to much of their former European range. As populations recover, conservationists are trying to find ways to help us live with the ‘Big Bad Wolf’ once more.

## WHAT’S IN A NAME?

From killer whales to vampire bats, the names we give to animals can have a lasting negative influence on how they’re perceived. In the wizarding world, the unfortunately named ‘Swooping Evil’ is feared for its ability to suck the brains out of its prey. However, its venom, when properly diluted, can be used to erase bad memories.

To counteract negative attitudes, scientists are trying using names to improve how we ‘see’ animals. Tom Saunders, an entomologist from the University of Auckland, wanted to challenge people’s dislike of wasps by naming a newly discovered species Lusius malfoyi, after the Harry Potter character Lucius Malfoy. Though widely considered a villain for his work as a Death-Eater under the Dark Lord, Voldemort, Malfoy later gives evidence against other Death-Eaters, aiding in their capture.

Humans can’t survive without nature, and as we discover more about how interconnected our world truly is, conservationists like Newt are working to transform our feelings from fear and dislike to respect and admiration when it comes to animals such as wasps, wolves, spiders and sharks. We hope the exhibition will help inspire a love of all beasts, furry,
scaled, slithering, flapping and crawling.

As Newt Scamander says: ‘Why do we continue… to attempt to protect and conceal magical beasts, even those that are savage and untameable? The answer is, of course, to ensure that future generations of witches
and wizards enjoy their strange beauty and powers as we have been privileged to do.’

*Fantastic Beasts™: The Wonder of Nature opens on 9 December 2020 and
is free to Members and Patrons.*

In this extract from the Natural History Museum's magazine, Evolve, learn more about their exhibition celebrating Fantastic Beasts.

What type of house point earner would you be?

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## If you’re a team player… you’d earn points on the Quidditch pitch
Are you someone that is dedicated to their favourite sport? Are you determined to make your team the best it can possibly be? Do you value teamwork over individual performance? Then we think you’d earn most of your house points for Quidditch reasons. While we are sure that you would be rewarded for being an excellent Chaser, Beater, Keeper or Seeker – it would be your ability to get everyone to work together that really helped pull in those important points. We reckon that not only would you make an excellent Quidditch Captain, but Madam Hooch would be particularly impressed by the unwavering support and encouragement you gave to every member of your team. 

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## If courage is your middle name… you’d earn points saving the school from Dark wizards
For a magical school, Hogwarts does seem to have its fair share of drama involving Dark wizards. Whether its Voldemort possessing the Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher or Death Eaters sneaking in via a Vanishing Cabinet – there always seems to be a threat that needs defeating. So, if you’re someone who is unfazed by danger, likes to dive headfirst into adventure and will happily duel with the best of them, then we think you’d earn quite a few points for sticking your neck out and saving the school. Though if you’re not successful, this could also be a way to lose valuable points…

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## If you’re a know-it-all… you’d earn points in every class
If you and Hermione Granger are similar in any way, then this is how you would earn house points. As a highly intelligent and knowledgeable person, we’re sure you would be sticking your hand up and answering every question you could. No matter whether it’s Transfiguration, Charms, Care of Magical Creatures or even Potions – your detailed answers and enthusiasm for learning would amaze all of your professors. In fact, they’d be so impressed, you would be showered in a constant stream of house points – and certainly on your way to winning the House Cup.

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## If you’re the caring type… you’d earn points for helping your friends
Are you someone that likes to put others before themselves? Do you take pleasure in helping your friends and family? If someone is moving house, or stuck on their homework, or struggling with organising a party, are you the person they turn to for help? If this is you, then we think you’d earn house points for assisting your friends. We can see you mentoring someone with a particularly tricky bit of Transfiguration, helping the new first-years find their classrooms and we can imagine that you’d be in the running for Prefect. Your caring attitude wouldn’t go unnoticed, and your kindness would earn your house a lot of points.

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## If you’re hardworking and conscientious… you’d earn points for being a homework hero
If you’re the type of person who is highly organised, wouldn’t dream of missing a deadline and is unafraid of a little hard work, then this would be the attitude that helped you secure those points. One thing that both magical and Muggle schools seem to love is homework, and you would be the very best when it came to that. No matter whether you’re writing an essay on goblin rebellions or trying to master the Summoning Charm, you always try your best and only ever turn in your highest standard of work. Your professors would be suitably awestruck, and you would be known as a homework hero.

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## If you’re savvy… you’d earn points for helping your teachers 
To win the House Cup, you need house points. And to earn house points, you need to be on the good side of those who award them, which is mainly the professors. Therefore, it only makes sense to keep them sweet. If this style of thinking makes sense to you and you’re known for being shrewd, then this is how you would earn house points. We can just see you now – helping Madam Hooch with sorting out the spare broomsticks, collecting weird and wonderful ingredients for Potions and watering magical plants in the Greenhouse when Professor Sprout is too busy… all with that coveted trophy in mind. Though your desire to help is fuelled by your ambition, it’s a win-win for everyone – and where’s the harm in that?

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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and the Order of the Phoenix

Ranked: Jacob Kowalski's top five funniest moments so far

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__A warning! Spoilers for both Fantastic Beasts films are featured in this article.__

***

## 5: When Jacob met Nicolas Flamel

It's always awkward meeting new people - but imagine meeting someone who is essentially immortal. This is exactly what happened to Jacob when he met the famed alchemist and creator of the Philosopher's Stone, Nicolas Flamel. And what's the best thing to say to an immortal person? "You don't look a day over 375", of course! 

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## 4: When Jacob tried to style out Newt’s Niffler robbing a jewellery store 
This was certainly a moment that made us chortle. While Newt was trying to catch his Niffler, who was happily causing chaos in a closed jewellery shop, Jacob was just stood there trying to act casual and not draw attention to this amusing scene. His little winces were excellent. And when he found himself facing the police, while inexplicably covered head to toe in jewels, he tried to style it out by saying ‘they went that way’ – and gave us all a good laugh in the process.

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## 3: When Jacob saw Newt climb into his case for the first time
Jacob has some brilliant reactions to things and this moment is no exception. The little scream he emits when Newt climbs into his case gets us every time. It was so involuntary but also so loud – he was clearly struggling to process what was going on in front of him. Though, he does quickly accept what he has seen and follows Newt – providing us with more merriment. The sight of Jacob climbing into the case and ungracefully falling down the ladder is never not going to be funny.

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## 2: When Jacob tried Gigglewater 
In second place we have yet another Jacob noise. This time it’s his giggle when he tries Gigglewater. Poor Jacob. Here he is trying his best to fit into a world that makes no sense, while attempting to act all suave and flirt with Queenie… and then he takes a sip of that magical drink. Out of nowhere comes a loud and ridiculous laugh that he can’t stifle. While we reckon that this was not the impression that he was trying to make, we couldn’t help but find it endearing and hilarious. 

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No-Maj Jacob Kowalski gets a glimpse into New York's secret magical world with Queenie Goldstein at The Blind Pig speakeasy

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## 1: When Jacob was chased by an Erumpent 
The top spot really couldn’t belong to anything else. While we thought the mating dance that Newt did was funny, it was no match for the hilarity that ensued when Jacob accidentally spilled Erumpent musk on himself. Watching him be chased, while wearing his little helmet, by an amorous Erumpent was just so funny. The No-Maj had gone from trying to get a loan at the bank to finding himself slap bang in the middle of creature chaos. His expression as he was hanging from a tree was priceless... and we bet he was trying to work out just how he had ended up in this ridiculous situation.

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Imagine if you’d read the Harry Potter books from Hermione's perspective

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## Book 1: Hermione Granger and the adventures that nearly got her expelled
Hermione Granger is thrilled to discover that she is a witch and starts her first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. On the way there she meets two infuriating boys – one who even had dirt on his nose – but little does she know that they will become a big part of her story. 

Being a very studious sort of person, she excels at everything but does have some difficulty making friends. Nevertheless, those two infuriating boys (Harry and Ron) become two of her closest chums after an incident in the girls’ bathroom involving a troll, *Wingardium Leviosa*, and lying to a teacher (which was the most painful part of that experience). 

The three of them embark on numerous adventures that could get them killed, or worse, expelled. This ends up with them protecting the Philosopher’s Stone from one very Dark wizard. That adventure led Hermione to demonstrate her logical side (a puzzling potions puzzle), her ruthless side (using the full Body-Bind spell on Neville) and proved that she was the cleverest witch of her age. 

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Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone 

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## Book 2: Hermione Granger and the time she solved the mystery before anyone else
Hermione Granger is back and ready to start her second year at Hogwarts. Now with her two best friends at her side, she truly does feel at home in the wizarding world. 

However, the Chamber of Secrets is opened. With a monster attacking Muggle-borns, Hermione finds herself in grave danger. Though that doesn’t stop her from being proactive about the situation. To help find the heir of Slytherin, she successfully brews Polyjuice Potion, which is way beyond the level of an ordinary second-year (even if the hair she used for her dose wasn’t puuurrfect). 

She also solves the mystery of what the creature is before anyone else. When disaster strikes! Hermione is Petrified before she can inform Harry and Ron that there is a Basilisk attacking students and using the school’s plumbing to move around. She ends up in the hospital wing for weeks before they figure it out. Luckily, she has left them some clues. Harry and Ron are able to piece it together, defeat the Basilisk and Hermione is back and raring to go – despite her disappointment at the cancellation of the end-of-year exams.

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Hermione sitting at a desk with a quill, looking thoughtful.

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## Book 3: Hermione Granger and the year she did literally everything
Hermione’s third year at Hogwarts is set to be a very busy year for her. There’s an escaped murderer on the loose who appears to be after one her best friends. And there’s friction between her, Harry and Ron. Having bought the wonderful Crookshanks, she has to deal with Ron’s (unfair) hatred of her furry, ginger pet. And Harry is all snotty with her because she told Professor McGonagall about her legitimate concerns when a Firebolt arrived for him with no note.

Yet, that isn’t the only thing she has to contend with. As the brightest in her year, she has taken on more subjects than there are hours in the day. However, she is secretly entrusted a Time-Turner and so can be in two places at once.

She keeps it a secret from Harry and Ron for a long time. But after a particularly eventful night where she discovers Sirius Black is not a murderer, her half-cat half-Kneazle is an excellent judge of character, Scabbers is a man in disguise and her Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher transforms into a werewolf (though that was one secret she had already figured out), she has to tell Harry. 

The two of them use the Time-Turner to try and save Sirius’s soul. And with werewolves, Dementors and the laws of time to grapple with, they have an awful lot on their plate. But once again, the bright and plucky witch pulls through – saving the day.

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## Book 4: Hermione Granger and the time she impressed a professional Quidditch player
Hermione’s fourth year doesn’t seem to be any quieter than the previous three. With an exciting Quidditch World Cup Final, her best friend competing in the Triwizard Tournament, a new romance on the scene, her other best friend’s jealousy to deal with and the return of Voldemort – there’s always something going on. 

When Harry is selected as the fourth Triwizard champion, it brings a lot of upheaval. She finds herself in the middle between Ron and Harry who aren’t talking. She is the subject of many false and awful articles by the odious Rita Skeeter. She also has to try and help Harry figure out how he’s going to complete the tasks, which involves a lot of research. 

Those trips to the library do unlock a new relationship, as she gets to know Viktor Krum – the dashing Bulgarian Seeker and Triwizard champion. Krum invites Hermione to the Yule Ball, and she has a wonderful time right up until Ron ruins it for her. 

With romance, jealousy, dancing, death and studying – this year is one Hermione will never forget.

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Hermione and Krum dancing at the Yule Ball. Hermione is looking up at Krum and smiling.

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