Habitat preferences of high-altitude Galliformes in Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal

Research reveals distinct seasonal and altitudinal habitat preferences among high-altitude Galliformes in Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal. The study found that Himalayan monal, blood pheasant, and Tibetan snowcock exhibit varying distribution patterns influenced by altitude, vegetation structure, and anthropogenic factors. Group sizes differ significantly between spring and autumn, with notable variation in habitat use and altitudinal ranges observed in the snowcock and blood pheasant. The Himalayan monal's distribution was particularly linked to human-influenced resources. Conducted across 3300–5000 m a.s.l., this study provides critical insights into the ecological dynamics of these poorly studied Himalayan species, highlighting their adaptive strategies in subalpine environments.

Soldatini, C., Albores-Barajas, Y. V., & Pellizzi, B. (2010). Habitat preferences of high-altitude Galliformes in Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal. Italian Journal of Zoology, 77(3), 347–353. https://doi.org/10.1080/11250000903337909