Human activity forces Himalayan monal bird to alter call and behavior

A sharp increase in human activity is altering how the Himalayan monal lives and communicates, BBC News reported. Two studies conducted by Indian researchers found that human presence is directly impacting the bird in its native mountain forest habitat. [1]

BBC News noted that the monal is a pheasant native to Himalayan forests and holds deep cultural significance across the region. The male bird features distinctive green, blue, and copper plumage. [1]

The monal serves as the official state bird of Uttarakhand in India and the national bird of Nepal. Legend and folklore across the region regularly feature humanoids and native animal species. [1][2]

According to BBC News, expanding infrastructure development and rising tourism are compressing the bird's natural environment while increasing surrounding noise levels. [1]