Pokémon Scarlet And Violet Guide | How to Find Orthworm

Track Orthworm in the desert mining zone near Zapapico, then dash into it when it pops out of the sand.

Game Guide by Monarch on Feb 28, 2026

Orthworm is a desert Pokémon that can be easy to miss because it often hides underground. You will usually see only a small part of it first, like a head poking out of the sand. Once you know the correct area and the right approach, catching it becomes quick and repeatable.

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Go To The Desert Mining Area Near Zapapico

Orthworm is found in the desert, in a zone that looks like a mining area with very little around it. The route places you fairly close to Zapapico, then points you into the desert section nearby. Once you reach that region, you can find Orthworms across the area instead of just in one tiny spot, so keep moving and scanning the sand.

Look For Orthworm Popping Out Of The Ground

In many cases, Orthworm stays underground. When it is hidden like this, it can be startled easily and disappear if you move too slowly or approach it the wrong way. Watch the ground for the small “head” sticking out, because that is usually the first sign it is there.

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Dash Into Orthworm To Start The Encounter

If Orthworm is underground, the best method is to rush it with your mount dash. Charge straight into it when you see it poking out. This forces the encounter to proceed the same way as other burrowing Pokémon. If it is not underground, you may also see Orthworm lying in the sand, which makes it even easier to run up and battle.

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What Level Orthworm Is

In the route shown, Orthworm appears at Level 28. That level can hit hard if you are early, so bring a few Poke Balls, keep your team healed, and be ready to weaken it before you throw. Once you catch it, you are done, and you can also keep searching the same desert zone if you want another one.

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