Exploring the Population Status of Galliformes in Mandi District, Himachal Pradesh, India

The present study was conducted to determine the population and habitat preferences of Red jungle fowl, Peafowl and Black francolins through calling count method. The study area was divided into five sites/ localities. The call count of Gallus gallus was maximal in Bandal chowk, Janitridhar has an outside population of Francolinus francolinus and Pavo cristatus was maximal in Sakrain dhar. The studied region included a varied flora, with 14 plant species and 9 shrub species. These phasianidae species decline in the area due to overhunting, habitat loss and degradation. The present study results are helpful for a conservation strategy for these birds’ species. This study also gives baseline data on the population of these three common phasianidae birds, which could serve as a basis for future habitat level studies.