Endangered state bird Monal rescued by local youths in Himachal’s Manali

MANDI: In a heartwarming display of community responsibility and wildlife conservation, local youths in Haripur village, under the Soyal panchayat of Manali Assembly constituency in Kullu district, rescued an injured Monal, Himachal Pradesh’s state bird and an endangered species.

The rare and vibrant bird, listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, was found in an injured state at the residence of Bal Krishna Sharma.

The Monal, believed to have descended from the nearby forest in search of food, was spotted sitting in Sharma’s courtyard.

Acting swiftly, Bal Krishna, along with Desh Raj, Chandra Mohan, Lucky Bhardwaj and Heera Lal Vibhu, informed the panchayat and the Forest Department, ensuring the bird’s safety.

Political Turmoil in Nishad Party as Former Secretary Takes His Own Life 57

Prompt rescue and medical care

Panchayat head Amar Thakur confirmed that the injured Monal was immediately given first aid at the Aleu dispensary.

Later, under the supervision of Forest Guard Gaurav Sharma, the bird was handed over to the Wildlife Wing of the Forest Department for further treatment and rehabilitation.

The Monal sustained minor injuries to its back, believed to be the result of an attack by a wild animal. Heera Lal Vibhu, one of the rescuers, reflected on the changing attitudes within the community.

“There was a time when wild animals or birds venturing into residential areas were considered a threat and often harmed. Today, the villagers recognise their responsibility in conserving wildlife and act accordingly,” he said.

Political Turmoil in Nishad Party as Former Secretary Takes His Own Life 58

Symbol of conservation efforts

The Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus), found at elevations between 2,400 and 4,500 metres, is known for its vibrant plumage and ecological significance.

Due to habitat loss and poaching, its numbers have dwindled over the years, pushing it to the brink of endangerment. Recognising this, Manali established Asia’s only Monal Breeding Center in 1984 at the Nehru Pheasantry within Van Vihar. In 2015, the centre was further developed to focus on conservation and rehabilitation of pheasants.

The pheasantry has played a pivotal role in stabilizing the Monal population, rescuing injured birds and reintroducing them into their natural habitat. This recent rescue highlights the importance of community involvement in wildlife conservation and the impact of awareness programmes in rural areas.

Community efforts deserve applause

The selfless act by the local youths not only saved a life but also reinforced the importance of collective responsibility in protecting endangered species.

In a time when human-wildlife conflicts are on the rise, such stories serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder that coexistence is possible.

The Forest Department has lauded the efforts of the rescuers and plans to recognise their contribution to wildlife conservation officially. The rescued Monal is currently under observation and is expected to make a full recovery before being released back into its natural habitat.

Munish Sood(Mandi)