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<p>Pheasants represent an ecologically significant group of ground-dwelling birds that act as indicators of ecosystem health. Although listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, the Kalij Pheasant <i>Lophura leucomelanos</i>, a prominent pheasant species in the Himalayan landscape, faces growing threats that contribute to its population decline. This study, conducted in Limber and Lachipora Wildlife Sanctuaries in the northwestern Himalaya, aimed to assess perceived threats to the White-crested Kalij Pheasant <i>L. l. hamiltoni</i> using a mixed-method approach comprising field observations, structured questionnaires, and Likert-scale analysis. Based on 405 valid responses, five key threats were identified: habitat degradation, illegal hunting, livestock grazing, mushroom collection, and forest fire. Habitat degradation (mean score: 4.5 ± 0.60) and hunting (4.02 ± 0.66) emerged as the most severe threats. Livestock grazing and mushroom collection posed moderate risks, while forest fire was perceived as relatively low threat. Additional pressures, such as natural predation and climate change, may further exacerbate species’ vulnerability. Statistical analyses, including Spearman’s correlation, chord diagrams, and box plots, were used to explore threat interactions and intensity. These findings underscore the need for targeted conservation efforts including habitat protection and restoration, stringent antipoaching laws, sustainable resource management, and reducing human dependency on forests through alternative livelihoods. Community participation is vital for effective conservation outcome. Moreover, continuous ecological monitoring and research are crucial to assess long-term impacts and refine conservation strategies. Addressing these challenges is essential not only for safeguarding the Kalij Pheasant and other associated pheasant species, but also for maintaining the overall ecological integrity of these ecosystems.</p>

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Community perceptions of threats to the White-crested Kalij Pheasant Lophura leucomelanos hamiltoni in two protected areas of the northwestern Himalaya: Implications for conservation

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年8月1日

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  • Arif Nabi Lone,
  • Bilal A. Bhat,
  • Khursheed Ahmad

摘要

Pheasants represent an ecologically significant group of ground-dwelling birds that act as indicators of ecosystem health. Although listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, the Kalij Pheasant Lophura leucomelanos, a prominent pheasant species in the Himalayan landscape, faces growing threats that contribute to its population decline. This study, conducted in Limber and Lachipora Wildlife Sanctuaries in the northwestern Himalaya, aimed to assess perceived threats to the White-crested Kalij Pheasant L. l. hamiltoni using a mixed-method approach comprising field observations, structured questionnaires, and Likert-scale analysis. Based on 405 valid responses, five key threats were identified: habitat degradation, illegal hunting, livestock grazing, mushroom collection, and forest fire. Habitat degradation (mean score: 4.5 ± 0.60) and hunting (4.02 ± 0.66) emerged as the most severe threats. Livestock grazing and mushroom collection posed moderate risks, while forest fire was perceived as relatively low threat. Additional pressures, such as natural predation and climate change, may further exacerbate species’ vulnerability. Statistical analyses, including Spearman’s correlation, chord diagrams, and box plots, were used to explore threat interactions and intensity. These findings underscore the need for targeted conservation efforts including habitat protection and restoration, stringent antipoaching laws, sustainable resource management, and reducing human dependency on forests through alternative livelihoods. Community participation is vital for effective conservation outcome. Moreover, continuous ecological monitoring and research are crucial to assess long-term impacts and refine conservation strategies. Addressing these challenges is essential not only for safeguarding the Kalij Pheasant and other associated pheasant species, but also for maintaining the overall ecological integrity of these ecosystems.