What is a "monal"?

A monal, also known as the Himalayan monal or Impeyan pheasant, is a strikingly beautiful bird found in the mountainous regions of the Himalayas. With its vibrant plumage featuring iridescent shades of blue, green, and copper, the monal is considered one of the most magnificent pheasant species in the world. It possesses a prominent crest on its head and a long, elegant tail that adds to its regal appearance. The monal is highly revered in the local cultures and folklore of the region, and it holds significant cultural and religious symbolism. However, due to habitat loss and hunting, the monal faces conservation challenges and is classified as a vulnerable species.