Satyr Tragopan
Image: Nikita Tiunov (cc-by-nc)
NameSatyr Tragopan
Common NameSatyr Tragopan
Scientific NameTragopan satyra
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)65
Weight (g)1650
Plumage DetailsMales are predominantly crimson with white spots, a black crown, and a blue face with inflatable blue gular wattles and fleshy horns. Females, like the one pictured, are duller, mottled brown and black with buff streaks and spots, providing excellent camouflage in their forest habitat.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a loud, mournful, far-carrying 'waa-ooo-ah' or 'hoo-ah' call, often repeated. They also make various clucking and cackling sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, subalpine scrub
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound in the eastern Himalayas, ranging from Nepal through Bhutan, northeastern India (Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh), and into southeastern Tibet (China).
Identifying FeaturesStocky, pheasant-like body, Males: Bright crimson plumage with white spots, blue facial skin, inflatable blue gular wattles, and two fleshy blue horns during display, Females: Cryptic mottled brown and black plumage with buff streaks and spots, Shy, ground-dwelling behavior in dense montane forests
Description
The Satyr Tragopan is a medium-sized, stocky pheasant known for its striking sexual dimorphism. Males display vibrant red and orange plumage with blue facial skin and inflatable wattles, while females are cryptically mottled brown, providing excellent camouflage. These shy birds are typically found foraging on the forest floor in mountainous regions.
