Work

Understanding pheasant diversity: A camera trap study at the Lapchi Valley, Central Himalaya, Nepal

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The study explored diversity and activity patterns in the Lapchi Valley, Gaurishankar Conservation Area, Central Himalaya, Nepal, through a camera trap survey conducted from 2018 to 2023. Four pheasant species were recorded: the blood pheasant ( Ithaginis cruentus ), Himalayan monal ( Lophophorus impejanus ), kalij pheasant ( Lophura leucomelanos ), and crimson horned pheasant ( Tragopan satyra ). A total of 26 camera traps were installed at elevations ranging from 2200–4700 meters above sea level. The blood pheasant was the most frequently recorded species, with 94 events, while the crimson horned pheasant was observed only once. Activity patterns revealed that all species were diurnal, with distinct activity peaks for each. The study also found moderate temporal overlap (Δ = 0.52) between the Himalayan monal and blood pheasant, indicating coexistence with minimal competition. This research provides crucial baseline data on pheasant diversity in the Gaurishankar Conservation Area, emphasizing the region's importance for conservation.

Source: Journal of Asia-Pacific Biodiversity

DOI: 10.1016/j.japb.2025.01.002

Authors: Narayan Prasad Koju, Laxman Prasad Poudyal, Lila Nyaichyai, Miriam Lee

Institutions: Pokhara University, Government of Nepal, Tribhuvan University, Chinese University of Hong Kong

Language: English

Topic: Avian ecology and behavior

Subfield: Ecology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: diamond

Funders: University Grants Commission, Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation