Orcs

Orcs are a type of non-human magical being understood to exist within the wizarding world. They are classified by reputation as dangerous and monstrous, grouped with other creatures from which the magical community expects protection. Despite this mention, no Orcs physically appear in the original seven novels, and their specific nature, appearance, and abilities remain undefined within the primary canon.

The sole reference to Orcs in the entire series occurs in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. After Rita Skeeter publishes an article in the Daily Prophet exposing Rubeus Hagrid's half-giant heritage, Ron Weasley voices the widespread prejudice against such beings to Harry Potter and Hermione Granger. In his argument, Ron lists Orcs among a group of creatures that wizards are meant to be protected from. He states, “…they're not supposed to be living with us, are they? Like werewolves… and trolls… and… and hags… and orcs and things… we're supposed to be protected from them.” This single line establishes that Orcs are part of the general knowledge or folklore of the wizarding world and are perceived as a significant threat.

Based on their grouping by Ron Weasley, Orcs are considered dangerous magical beings, similar in threat level to trolls, hags, and active werewolves. This context implies they are likely viewed as brutish, malevolent, and possibly of low intelligence, traits commonly associated with trolls in the series. However, no canonical text provides a physical description or details their specific characteristics, habitat, or social structure. The Ministry of Magic's official classification for Orcs, if one exists, is unknown.

• The concept of Orcs is a well-established trope in fantasy literature, most famously popularized by J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. In Tolkien's work, Orcs are depicted as brutish, violent, and ugly creatures who serve the forces of evil. The mention in Harry Potter is likely an allusion to this broader fantasy tradition, using a familiar term to evoke a sense of a monstrous, non-human threat.
• Orcs are not listed in the official companion textbook Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.
• J.K. Rowling has never provided any additional information regarding the nature of Orcs in her wizarding world through interviews or the Pottermore/Wizarding World website.