It’s not common knowledge anymore, but the Golden Snitch of Quidditch is actually derived from the Snidget. The Golden Snidget is a small, completely round bird, which can change direction extremely quickly because it has rotational joints in its wings. It’s very difficult to catch, and this, coupled with its prized feathers and jewel-like eyes, made it an impressive trophy for a hunter. Quidditch Through the Ages tells us that Barberus Bragge, the Chief of the Wizards’ council, released a Snidget at a match in 1269, and that he offered 150 Galleons to the person who caught it. The combination of being hunted and used as a live Quidditch ball meant this beautiful little bird was driven to the brink of extinction. Luckily the practice of killing Snidgets was outlawed in the 1300s, with severe penalties attached to any violation. They’re still a protected species today, and there are Snidget sanctuaries all over the world.