Uttarakhand – Himalayan Monal
Common Name: Himalayan Monal, Impeyan Monal, Impeyan Pheasant
Local Name: Monal (Hindi), Datiwar (Kumaon and Garhwal)
Scientific Name: Lophophorus impejanus
Description: Native to the Himalayan forests, the Himalayan Monal is a beautiful, large-sized pheasant. These birds weigh between 1.8 and 2.3 kg and are about 70 cm long. High sexual dimorphism is displayed by Himalayan Monals, with males exhibiting amazing iridescent plumage that includes coppery feathers, a conspicuous white rump, and a long, gorgeous green metallic crest. The females have a pale blue eye patch, a white patch on the throat, and a streaky brown body.
Threats: Hunting, habitat loss, habitat degradation, and pollution are some of the threats faced by Himalayan Monals. As Himalayan Monals are found in the high mountain areas, the local populations are severely impacted by climate change and loss of biodiversity.