ML620768337

Observation details

Observation Details: As we descended along the forested hill slopes of Baramura Hills, we noticed that much of the forest had been cleared by local tribals. The area was transitioning from daylight to dusk, casting a serene yet slightly eerie ambiance over the landscape.Continuing our descent, we approached the base of the hills where an artificial lake had been excavated within the deep forested ravines. It was here, amidst the thick undergrowth near a hill stream, that we first heard the distinct calls of the Gray Peacock Pheasant (Polyplectron bicalcaratum).The calls were peculiar and unmistakable, coming from at least three different birds, each responding to the others. The location was characterized by dense vegetation covering the stream, creating a suitable habitat for these elusive birds.We decided to pause our descent and observe the area. For approximately 45 minutes, we listened intently to the calls. The birds seemed to be communicating from different vantage points along the stream, hidden by the thick foliage. Despite the low visibility due to the time of day and the dense cover, the calls persisted, providing a clear indication of the birds' presence.The calling continued steadily until dusk, adding a vibrant auditory element to the otherwise still and silent forest. While we were unable to visually confirm the exact number and location of the Gray Peacock Pheasants due to the thick cover and fading light, the consistent and responsive nature of the calls strongly suggested the presence of at least three individuals. Conclusion: The sighting (or rather, the auditory confirmation) of Gray Peacock Pheasants at Baramura Hills underscores the importance of this habitat for the species, despite the local deforestation pressures. Future visits during earlier parts of the day might yield better visual confirmations. Continued monitoring and protection of these habitats are essential for the conservation of this and other species in the area.