Himalayan monal

The Himalayan monal, also known as the Impeyan monal or Impeyan pheasant, is a striking bird that inhabits the forests and shrublands of the Himalayas, typically found at elevations between 2,100 and 4,500 meters. Part of the Phasianidae family, this bird is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. In Nepal, it enjoys the esteemed status of being the national bird and is locally referred to as the danphe or danfe. Its scientific name honors Lady Mary Impey, the wife of Sir Elijah Impey, the British chief justice of Bengal.

This sizable pheasant species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism. The males boast a spectacular array of colors, featuring a metallic green crest, coppery feathers, and a prominent white rump. In contrast, the females are more subdued in coloration but possess distinctive traits such as a white throat patch and long tail feathers.

The Himalayan monal's distribution extends from Afghanistan and Pakistan through India, Nepal, southern Tibet, and Bhutan. They primarily inhabit upper temperate oak-conifer forests and alpine meadows, ranging between 2,400 and 4,500 meters; however, during winter, they descend to lower altitudes, around 2,000 meters. These birds are well-adapted to snowy conditions, subsisting on plant roots and invertebrates.

The breeding season spans from April to August, during which pairs bond to rear their offspring. In winter, these birds congregate in large flocks and roost collectively. Despite their resilience, they face threats from poaching and human disturbance, notably in areas such as the western Himalayas and Himachal Pradesh. The hunting of males for their ornate crest feathers was a significant issue until it was banned in 1982.

While the Himalayan monal is not considered endangered in Pakistan, it still encounters conservation challenges due to the illicit trade of its crest feathers, which are coveted as status symbols. Ongoing conservation efforts aim to protect this magnificent bird and its habitat from human threats, ensuring its continued survival in the wild.