Glossy pheasant

Glossy pheasant

We are delighted that Erika Büse has taken on the sponsorship of the glossy pheasant (Lophophorus impejanus).

This bird, also known as the Himalayan glossy pheasant, is widespread in Asia. In contrast to the magnificent males, the females are brown in colour with a white throat stripe.

It was given its scientific name (Lophophorus impejanus) in honour of the wife of Sir Elija Impey, the first governor of Bengal. It is the national bird of Nepal and the heraldic animal of an Indian state.
Although the bird, which can grow up to 70 cm tall, is a good flyer, it usually seeks out cover continuously. In search of roots, shoots, seeds, berries or even insects and larvae, the animals prefer to live in groups of three to four of the same sex. This only changes during the mating season.
Due to their iridescent colouring, royal glossy pheasants are often kept as ornamental birds worldwide. They can reach an age of up to 30 years.