“This creature is a giant serpent and one of the deadliest beings in the wizarding world. Measuring approximately 50 feet long and capable of petrifying anything that looks into its eyes, the basilisk is not a creature to be erased” (Basilisk). Appearing primarily in the second book, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, this deadly serpent proves to be a deadly force and makes for a thrilling showdown. A basilisk is deadly due to several factors. “The basilisk can grow up to fifty feet long, looking directly into its eyes will instantly kill anyone. Its skin is armored like a dragon's, which deflects spells cast on it, and the venom of one of these snakes is so powerful that it can kill a person in minutes. Additionally, basilisk venom is an extremely toxic substance that has only one known cure: phoenix tears” (Basilisk). These characteristics make it a formidable and dangerous beast, worthy of its reputation. By using this reptile in her series, JK Rowling is able to create an exciting world that draws readers into her story with a suspenseful battle between Harry Potter and this reptile.