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Marking the launch of the fascinating new book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, an exciting collaboration is underway. Pokémon's creators and London's Natural History Museum will launch a pop-up shop stocked with special items. Fans will find products like stationery, plushes, and artwork that are inspired by the institution's theme. The big draw, however, is a limited-edition Pikachu card, offered as a free bonus at the pop-up. The store will operate both the physical location to its web counterpart from January 26 to April 19.

Pokécology Behind the Partnership

Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology represents a highly anticipated tome filled with beautiful illustrations that show Pokémon in their wild environments. It's essentially like what an in-world scientist might publish once trainers provide field notes, or what Charles Darwin could have sketched had the Galapagos teemed with flying-types rather than finches. Part of the charm lies in the book's scholarly approach, treating Pokémon as a legitimate subject for inquiry. Writer Yoshinari Yonehara and artist Chihiro Kinoshita each possess doctorate degrees in ecology and behavioral science.

Why This Special Card Different

It is common to issue special edition cards celebrating big events or brand collaborations. A lot such collector items typically highlight the famous mouse Pokémon that acts as the series face. What distinguishes this latest museum card however, is the unusually large dimensions. While precise specs have not been immediately shared, availability will certainly be highly restricted, with customers limited to only a single card per purchase.

Curbing Speculator Activity

Per an official announcement, a portion of the merchandise will also be sold outside the museum walls. However, broader availability will only be specific stores in the UK. Importantly, collectors will not be able to purchase the card through the official web shop. While reseller interest is inevitable, it appears they're going to have a difficult time stockpiling large numbers this time around. If you're feeling left out, consider an alternative like fossil-themed display coming to the Windy City later this year.

"All profits from purchases from the Museum shop and its web shop, including these items, support the Natural History Museum’s charitable mission. This includes the research of 400 scientists dedicated to conducting studies to discover answers to the planetary emergency," it notes.