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Marking the arrival of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting collaboration has been formed. Pokémon's creators and the Natural History Museum are opening a pop-up shop featuring exclusive items. Fans will find offerings including plush toys, art prints, and writing supplies that are drawing from the institution's aesthetic. The big draw, however, will be a limited-edition Pikachu card, offered as a gift with purchase at the pop-up. This shop will operate both on-site at the museum and online from January 26 to April 19.

The Book Behind the Collaboration

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology is a highly anticipated volume filled with beautiful illustrations that show creatures in their natural habitats. The concept like what an in-world scientist could produce once adventurers submit their data, alternatively a naturalist's journal might have created if the Galapagos teemed with flying-types rather than birds. Part of the charm stems from the book's scholarly treatment, presenting Pokémon as worthy of subject for study. Author Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita both hold PhDs in animal behavior and ecology.

What Makes This Special Card Different

The company regularly to issue special edition promos celebrating big events and brand collaborations. Many such collector items typically highlight the famous electric rodent that acts as the series face. The factor setting this latest museum card is its distinctly bigger dimensions. While exact measurements were not immediately shared, its distribution will certainly be highly restricted, and customers able to get just one card per purchase.

Curbing Speculator Activity

Per a company statement, some of the pop-up items will also be sold beyond the museum walls. However, broader availability is slated for specific stores in the United Kingdom. Importantly, fans will not be able to purchase the card through the official web shop. While speculator demand is a given, it appears they will have trouble stockpiling large numbers this time around. If you're feeling left out, there is an alternative like fossil-themed display coming to Chicago in the coming months.

"Every penny of sales made in the museum store and from its web shop, including these items, support the Natural History Museum’s non-profit work. That encompasses the efforts of 400 scientists dedicated to conducting studies to discover solutions to the global ecological crisis," the statement notes.