Myagdi, November 5
The population of the rare Cheer Pheasant (Catreus wallichii) has increased in the high hills around the Kaligandaki River basin of Myagdi district, according to a new study by the Nepalese Ornithological Union (NOU).
The study, conducted in areas including Ghansa, Lete, Kunjo, Titital, Khanti, and Jhipra Deurali of Mustang’s Thasang Rural Municipality, found 18 pairs of Cheer Pheasants this year—up from six pairs recorded in 2009. Researcher Birat Rajak said earlier surveys had recorded 17 pairs in 2004 and 11 in 2006, but no study had been done since 2009.
“The latest findings show a clear rise in the Cheer Pheasant population in the upper Kaligandaki region,” Rajak said, attributing the growth to conservation awareness, reduced poaching, and controlled human and livestock activities in habitats.
Cheer Pheasants are found mainly in the Annapurna Conservation Area, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Rara National Park, and mountain regions of Myagdi, Baglung, Karnali, and the Far West.
Bishnu Adhikari, Chief of the Division Forest Office, Myagdi, said the species is listed as endangered under Nepal’s National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 2029 BS. A long-term conservation programme is being planned based on the findings.
