What Is Newt Scamander’s Patronus?

by , · April 29, 2017

Over the last few years, J.K. Rowling has become infamous for dropping little snippets of information on Twitter. Sometimes, this gives us a whole new understanding of something, and sometimes it’s just a little frustrating with nothing more than a cryptic message. Most recently, in response to a question from a fan, Rowling suggested that Newt Scamander’s Patronus is a massive plot spoiler.

 

 

What does this mean? How could a Patronus be a massive plot spoiler?

But this got us thinking, what might Newt’s Patronus be? Looking at the options available to us on the official Pottermore quiz, we attempted to make a shortlist.

 

Dragon

We know that Newt worked with dragons during WWI, something he tells Jacob during the course of events of the first Fantastic Beasts film. We also know that he was the only person able to get close to the creatures, and dragons are strong in their convictions and are fierce fighters, perfect for our Newt, who has made it his life’s work to defend and protect vulnerable magical creatures.

 

Swan

We really don’t know much about Leta Lestrange, but our guess is that Newt’s Patronus might well be related to her. We’ve tentatively suggested that there’s a link to the Greek mythology of Leda, who was seduced by Zeus in the form of a swan. This may be nothing but wild speculation, and this isn’t on the list of Pottermore Patronuses, but perhaps Newt’s Patronus is linked to Leta in some way – maybe in the form of a swan!

 

Badger

The emblem of the Hufflepuff House is the badger, so it would be fitting that Newt, the most Hufflepuff of Hufflepuffs, would have the badger as his protector. He’s clearly still proud of his roots, and the badger, as a determined and grounded creature, would be perfect.

 

Bassett Hound

When Eddie Redmayne took the Patronus quiz, he discovered that his Patronus was a Bassett Hound. We think this would fit Newt perfectly too, as a loyal and affectionate creature that likes to do things in its own way.

 

Buffalo

Buffaloes travel in herds and are extremely loyal and protective of them. We see that in Newt with not only his creatures but also the friends he meets in Beasts. Once he lets someone into his “herd,” he is very protective of them and works hard to keep them from harm.

 

Hedgehog

Another creature that lives near the ground, this would also suit Newt perfectly since the creature is known for its sharp, defensive spikes when threatened, as well as its anxiety and caution.

 

Little Owl

These creatures are introverted, independent, and observant, not unlike Mr. Scamander!

 

St. Bernard

These dogs have the reputation of being some of the most loyal, kind, and gentle. Sound familiar? That’s probably because a certain Magizoologist also shares those same traits. Both St. Bernards and Newt are quick to protect their loved ones and act as a guardian to keep them from danger.

 

Or perhaps Newt’s Patronus is a fantastic beast that we haven’t even discovered yet…

Rowling also revealed that she was still editing the script for the second Fantastic Beasts film,  but we know that filming begins this summer, so we’re sure it won’t be long until the script is ready. We’ll have to be a little more patient, however, to find out about the film – and how Newt’s Patronus might affect the plot!

What do you think Newt’s Patronus might be? Did we leave something out? How does Newt’s Patronus relate to the film series? Let us know your thoughts in the comments – we’d love to know what you’re speculating!