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Tragopan melanocephalus

Western Tragopan

BirdBest Season: Apr–Jul

Best locations

5

Expert creators

0

Field Reports (12 months)

0

Western Tragopan (Tragopan melanocephalus) — wildlife photography in India

(c) PJeganathan, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA)

About this species

The Western Tragopan is a spectacular Himalayan pheasant — males with brilliant red, black and white plumage — and one of the rarest pheasants in the world. Found in the dense oak and rhododendron forests of Himachal Pradesh and J&K above 2,400 metres. Great Himalayan National Park is the most reliable location in India. See Western Tragopan in the Himalayas. One of the world's rarest pheasants — birding expedition guide and expert naturalist tours.

Quick facts

Scientific name
Tragopan melanocephalus
Category / family
Bird · —
Best months to photograph
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Difficulty to spot
Moderate
Best locations
Great Himalayan National ParkGovind Pashu Vihar Wildlife SanctuaryKishtwar National ParkKugti Wildlife SanctuaryTirthan Wildlife Sanctuary

Field Reports

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Best locations for Western Tragopan

Reserves and landscapes where our photographers reliably encounter this species, with links to place-specific guides.

Himachal PradeshGreat Himalayan National Park
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UttarakhandGovind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary
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Jammu and KashmirKishtwar National Park
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Himachal PradeshKugti Wildlife Sanctuary
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Himachal PradeshTirthan Wildlife Sanctuary
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Wildlife Creators Specialising in Western Tragopan

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Upcoming Trips Targeting Western Tragopan

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When and Where to Photograph Western Tragopan

The Western Tragopan is a spectacular Himalayan pheasant — males with brilliant red, black and white plumage — and one of the rarest pheasants in the world. Found in the dense oak and rhododendron forests of Himachal Pradesh and J&K above 2,400 metres. Great Himalayan National Park is the most reliable location in India. See Western Tragopan in the Himalayas. One of the world's rarest pheasants — birding expedition guide and expert naturalist tours.

Plan field days around Apr–Jul: light is often strongest at dawn and dusk, when many mammals and birds are most active. Work with a naturalist who knows local movement patterns — they will position you ethically while improving your odds of a encounter in Great Himalayan National Park.

Related species

  • Sarus Crane
  • Malabar Pied Hornbill
  • Great Indian Bustard
  • Indian Peafowl
  • Goliath Heron
  • Fire-Tailed Sunbird
  • Andaman Serpent Eagle
  • Jerdon's Minivet
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