Western Tragopan

The most elusive of Pakistan's pheasants is the Western tragopan (Tragopan melanocephalus). Although they were once common in the Western Himalayas, only a small population now survives in Keyal and Palas valleys, in Indus Kohistan, and in Azad Kashmir. The species is classified as threatened with extinction. Like other tragopans, Western tragopan pheasants have richly patterned and spotted plumage, with contrasting areas of bare skin around their throats and eyes. Comparatively, little is known about these shy and nervous birds, which live in inaccessible, high-altitude areas. Although attempts have been made at capturing these elusive birds since 1837, a captive breeding programme has never been established. The survival of the Western tragopan depends on protecting their habitat.