HIMALAYAN MONAL Lophophorus impejanus ©Ramki Sreenivasan (top)
The Himalayan is the National bird of Nepal, where it is known as the Danfe, and the state bird of Uttarakhand. These birds show tolerance to snow and have been observed to dig through snow for roots, tubers and other plant parts, and invertebrates. Seen in pairs during the breeding season (April to August), they form large coveys and involve in communal roosting during the winter. The population of this species in most of its range is threatened due to poaching and other anthropogenic factors. The male monal has been under heavy hunting pressure for its crest feather, which was used for ornament hats of Himachal men, until 1982 when legal hunting was banned in the state.
The bird from “UP” In the 2009 Disney-Pixar Film “Up,” the large flightless tropical bird “Kevin” (actually a female in the movie) is based upon a male Himalayan Monal found at the Sacramento Zoo. The bird, named “Genghis,” sadly, has since died.
Other photos you may enjoy:
Himalayan Monal
Another Monal
Java Green Peafowl
©Njål Berge - Alpine Birding (male fanned - above) ©laura quick (hen - below)