In the constantly changing landscape of Pokemon GO, encountering rare and elusive Pokemon is all part of the fun. One such Pokemon, Kecleon, is notable because of its encounter mechanics that are unique to other creatures in the game.
This article will guide you through the exact process of locating and catching Kecleon, along with tips to maximize your chances.
Why Kecleon in Pokemon GO is different

Kecleon doesn't show up on your nearby list, in the overworld, or in raids. You won't find it walking around or spawning via incense, like most other Pokemon. Kecleon only shows up on PokeStops — not around them, but clinging on to them — and even then, it's invisible at first.
When you try to spin a PokeStop that hosts a Kecleon, you'll get an error message indicating there's something stopping you from spinning it. If you closely examine the image of the PokeStop, you might see a slight outline or glow — that's a Kecleon. It attaches itself to the image on the PokeStop, camouflaging itself.
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Steps to find and catch Kecleon in Pokemon GO

- Check PokeStops often: Walk around and visit several PokeStops. If you receive a notification stating "an invisible object is in the way" or "something is blocking you from spinning this PokeStop," that's your cue that Kecleon is hiding there.
- Notice carefully the image of the PokeStop: Kecleon will be almost-transparent and camouflaged. Tap on the PokeStop picture where you think Kecleon is sticking. You'll probably have to tap several times until the Pokemon show up.
- Tap until it jumps off: Once you've tapped it a few times, Kecleon will be completely visible and will eventually jump off the PokeStop. This move doesn't spawn right away in the overworld.
- Be in close physical proximity: Here's an important fact people overlook: you need to be in close proximity to the PokeStop for Kecleon to show up in the overworld. Even when you're able to access the PokeStop from afar and can watch as the Kecleon pops out, it won't spawn in the overworld if you're not in the proper distance range. Approach the PokeStop directly before trying to initiate the encounter.
- Catch Kecleon like a wild Pokemon: Once Kecleon is in the overworld, it acts like any other wild encounter.
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Best tips and tricks to catch Kecleon in Pokemon GO

- Spin as many PokeStops as you can: This can't be emphasized enough — the more you spin, the better. Though some reckon that the chances of finding Kecleon are about 1 in 50 PokeStops, it can be much more rare. There is no concrete figure, so the more you spin, the higher your chances.
- Concentrate on high-density zones: City spaces with a high density of PokeStops offer you greater chances quicker. Places such as downtown, parks, and college campuses are perfect for this tactic.
- Accept its rarity: Kecleon is already one of the rarest in Pokemon GO, and its shiny variant is even rarer. So be patient and accept that this is a long-term endeavour.
- Play during events: Special events such as the Hoenn Tour cause Kecleon's appearance rate to be high. Take advantage of these high times.
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Check out our other Pokemon GO guides:
- Ditto disguises
- Buddy Evolution Adventure Together guide
- Best Fast Attacks in the game
- Sierra counters
- Cliff counters
- Arlo counters
- Giovanni counters
- Team GO Rocket Grunts
- Go Evolution Calculator
- Pokemon Type Calculator
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Edited by Aashish Victor