Himalayan Monal
Image: peterjoneswitton (cc-by-nc)
NameHimalayan Monal
Common NameHimalayan Monal
Scientific NameLophophorus impejanus
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)67.5
Length (cm)66.5
Weight (g)2100
Plumage DetailsMales display brilliant, iridescent plumage with a metallic green head, coppery-red neck, metallic green and blue body, purple-bronze wings, and a prominent metallic green crest. They have a distinctive white rump patch and a black tail. Females are duller, predominantly mottled brown with a white throat and a white rump patch.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, clear, whistling calls, often described as 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'kew-kew-kew', and a variety of crowing and cackling sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatstemperate forest, alpine pasture, rocky slopes, rhododendron thickets
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout the Himalayan mountain range, from eastern Afghanistan through Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and southern Tibet (China).
Identifying FeaturesLarge, heavy-bodied pheasant, Male's iridescent multi-colored plumage, Prominent metallic green crest on male, Bare red facial skin around the eye (male), White rump patch (visible in flight or when foraging)
Description
The Himalayan Monal is a large, colorful pheasant known for the male's spectacular iridescent plumage. These birds are typically found foraging on steep, grassy slopes and rocky areas in high-altitude environments, using their strong bills to dig for food.
