Population status and habitat assessment of Cheer Pheasant (Catreus wallichii) in Western Nepal

Abstract

The Cheer Pheasant (Catreus wallichii) is a protected species found abundantly to the west of Kaligandaki River. This study was conducted in the Myagdi district located in the western part of Kaligandaki River from October 2016 to June 2017. Our aim was to assess the habitat and population status of Cheer Pheasant, using acoustic survey and quadrate methods. A total of 38 breeding individuals were estimated in 7 bird/km2 density. The study also revealed that Cheer Pheasants showed a preference for exposure components of the habitat. They preferred moderately steep eastern slopes (10-35°) and steep southern slopes (35-67°) between 1800-2400 m elevations. Additionally low tree density and high herbs density showed a significant effect on the habitat choice of the species. Poaching and habitat destruction are the major threats in the study site, calling upon a strategic management plan for the long-term conservation of the Cheer Pheasant.