|
Quantity
|
Total
|
||
|
|
|||
Description of the species
The Himalayan monal (lat. Lophophorus impejanus) is a pheasant in the family Phasianidae with a sturdy build, strong legs, a short tail, and a heavy bill. The male shows iridescent greens, reds, purples, and blues, a white rump, a coppery tail above (black below), and a golden crest; both sexes have a blue orbital ring. The female is brown with pale striping and darker cross-barring, a white throat, and no crest. Male length is about 70 cm (tail ~23 cm); females are smaller.
Range
Inhabits Himalayan montane forests with oak, pine, and rhododendron and steep grassy slopes at roughly 2,500–5,000 m a.s.l., from eastern Afghanistan east to Bhutan and into adjacent Tibetan regions. During heavy snow it descends to lower elevations.
Lifestyle
Feeds on roots, tubers, shoots, acorns, and berries, plus insects and their larvae, which it digs from the soil with its scoop-like bill. Often forages in small single-sex groups of 3–4 birds; larger winter groups occur in favorable areas.
Breeding
In the courtship period the male calls loudly and performs display routines—raising the crest, stretching the neck, circling the female with one wing lowered—and may offer pebbles or food. After the female begins incubation, the male may seek further matings. The nest is a shallow scrape lined with leaves, moss, and straw. Clutches usually contain 4–6 white eggs with rufous speckling; incubation is about 27 days.
Buy a Himalayan monal: ordering and shipping
You can purchase Himalayan monals from our farm. Delivery across Ukraine. To check availability and delivery, contact via Viber, Telegram or by phone 050-182-27-27.
Common questions
How does the Himalayan monal differ from other mountain pheasants?
The male’s iridescent metallic plumage, white rump, and golden crest are distinctive; females are plainer brown. Both sexes show a blue orbital ring.
What husbandry conditions matter most?
Provide a spacious, dry aviary with cover, shade, and good ventilation; in winter ensure protection from damp and wind. Offer mineral supplements and constant clean water.
What should they be fed in captivity?
A pheasant grower feed base with added greens, berries, and acorns; include an animal-protein source during the breeding season.