The Himalayan monal (Lophophorus impejanus), also known as the Impeyan monal or Impeyan pheasant, is a striking bird native to the Himalayan forests and shrublands, found at elevations ranging from 2,100 to 4,500 meters (6,900–14,800 ft). It belongs to the Phasianidae family and holds a Least Concern status on the IUCN Red List. Revered as the national bird of Nepal (known locally as danphe or danfe) and the state bird of Uttarakhand, India (where it is called a monal), this species is named in honor of Lady Mary Impey, wife of Sir Elijah Impey, the British chief justice of Bengal.
This relatively large pheasant measures about 70 cm (28 in) in length, with adult males weighing up to 2,380 g (84 oz) and females about 2,150 g (76 oz). The male monal displays a striking multicolored plumage, featuring a long metallic green crest, coppery feathers on the back and neck, and a prominent white rump visible during flight. Its tail feathers are uniformly rufous, darkening towards the tips. In contrast, females exhibit more subdued colors typical of female pheasants, with notable white patches on the throat and tail.
The bird’s feathers, particularly the striking black ones with a metallic blue sheen, are highly valued and often used in classic and full-dressed salmon flies, reflecting the species’ cultural significance and natural beauty.
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