Leeches are small slug-like creatures that live in water. They feed on human blood and/or that of other small invertebrates.^[1] Leeches are used in potion-making: to make the Polyjuice Potion, four unsucculated leeches are required. ^[2][3] Also, a dash of leech juice is a required ingredient in the making of the Shrinking Solution. ^[4] Flabberghasted leeches are also used in potion-making.

Behind the scenes

• The use of leeches in the Polyjuice Potion was chosen by J. K. Rowling to represent "[sucking] the essence out of one and into the other".^[5] Interestingly, the film prop used for Moste Potente Potions suggests that the leeches used have their suckers removed.

Appearances

• Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (First appearance)
• Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (film)
• Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (video game)
• Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
• Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (video game) (GBA version only)
• The Road to Hogwarts Sweepstakes
• Pottermore

Notes and references