Western Tragopan: Vulnerable Species in News
Context
A captive-breeding programme at Sarahan Pheasantry, Himachal Pradesh, has helped stabilise the Western Tragopan population, offering renewed hope for long-term conservation.
Habitat Distribution
- Found in moist temperate Himalayan forests between 2,400–3,600 m
- Prefers dense undergrowth, ringal bamboo, rhododendron thickets, and conifer forests
- Major habitats include GHNP, Kazinag, Limber (J&K), parts of Uttarakhand, and northern Pakistan
Conservation Status
- Categorised as Vulnerable under the IUCN Red List
- Global population estimated at 3,000–9,500 mature individuals, forming a single fragile sub-population
Key Characteristics
- Male shows velvet-black head, crimson breast, white spotting, and blue–orange facial wattles
- Female is smaller with brown camouflaged plumage
- Ground-dwelling and secretive, active during dawn and dusk
- Diet of berries, seeds, buds, shoots, insects
- Breeds in May–June with 3–5 eggs laid in concealed nests
Ecological and Cultural Significance
- Functions as an indicator species of high-altitude forest health
- Holds cultural value as the state bird of Himachal Pradesh
- Captive breeding at Sarahan has produced 40+ individuals, strengthening species survival prospects
Conclusion
The Western Tragopan’s recent conservation gains highlight the effectiveness of focused Himalayan biodiversity management. Protecting habitats and sustaining scientific breeding efforts remain critical for securing the future of this rare and vulnerable species.
Source : The Hindu