Himalayan monal dazzles with rare mid-flight sighting over Bhutan

The Himalayan monal (Lophophorus impejanus), often called the “nine-colored bird” or the “jewel of the Himalayas,” has once again captured global attention following a rare mid-flight sighting over Bhutan in early 2026. Known for its extraordinary iridescent plumage, the high-altitude pheasant is considered one of the most visually striking birds in the world.

Adult male Himalayan monals are renowned for their shimmering, metallic feathers that refract sunlight into flashes of blue, green, purple, gold, and orange. Remarkably, these vivid hues are entirely natural, created not by pigments but by microscopic structural formations within the feathers that bend and scatter light.

Males also feature a long metallic green crest, a coppery neck, and a prominent white rump that becomes especially visible in flight, making airborne sightings particularly spectacular. In contrast, females display streaky brown plumage that provides effective camouflage in mountainous terrain. They are distinguished by a white throat and a subtle pale blue eye patch, highlighting clear sexual dimorphism within the species.

The Himalayan monal is native to the greater Himalayan range, stretching from eastern Afghanistan and Pakistan through northern India, Nepal, Bhutan, and southern Tibet. It typically inhabits upper temperate oak-conifer forests and alpine meadows at elevations between 2,100 and 4,500 meters. During winter, the species undertakes altitudinal migration, descending to lower elevations of around 2,000 meters in search of food and milder conditions.

The bird holds deep cultural importance across the region. It is the national bird of Nepal, where it is locally known as the danfe (or danphe). In India, it serves as the state bird of Uttarakhand and was previously the state bird of Himachal Pradesh until 2007.

Beyond its visual splendor, the Himalayan monal is known for its loud, ringing calls that echo across mountain valleys. These vocalizations serve multiple purposes, from alerting others to danger to attracting mates during breeding season.

The recent mid-air sighting in Bhutan has once again highlighted why this extraordinary bird continues to fascinate birdwatchers, conservationists, and nature lovers alike a living prism soaring across the Himalayan skies.