Uttarakhand's State Bird Monal: Himalayan Pride, Facing Extinction

• The Monal, Uttarakhand's state bird and Nepal's national bird, was recently sighted in the high Himalayas, known for its vibrant beauty.
• Found across Himalayan regions (India, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, China, Myanmar) at altitudes of 6,000-14,000 feet.
• Its diet adapts seasonally, from insects in autumn to various plant parts; breeding occurs in May-June, with the female incubating alone.
• Despite being declared state bird in 2000, no official population count since 2008; numbers are declining due to climate change and illegal hunting.
• Once easily sighted, the Monal is now becoming rare, highlighting an urgent need for conservation efforts.

Why It Matters: Uttarakhand's beautiful state bird, the Monal, is facing extinction due to neglect and environmental threats.