Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Satyr Tragopan

Scientific name: Tragopan satyra


Satyr Tragopan

IUCN Status: Near Threatened

Family: PHASIANIDAE

Group: Birds

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 10 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.04-30.06

Gestation: N/A

Births: 01.06-31.07


Habitat:
Mountain forests, temperate forests, scrublands

Description:
The Satyr Tragopan is a fascinating bird native to the mountainous forests of the Himalayas. This medium-sized pheasant is particularly remarkable for its striking plumage. The male displays vibrant colors, with shades of red, orange, and blue, while the female is more subdued with brown and gray tones, allowing her to blend effectively into her surroundings. The Satyr Tragopan is known for its spectacular courtship displays, where the male spreads his feathers and emits loud calls to attract a mate. It primarily feeds on vegetation, seeds, and insects. Although its habitat is threatened by deforestation, it remains relatively common in some areas.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the Satyr Tragopan, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture the details of its plumage without disturbing it. The best opportunities arise early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft. Look for areas where the bird is likely to feed or display. Be patient and discreet, as the tragopan is suspicious and can easily flee if disturbed. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and adjust the ISO settings to compensate for the low light in the undergrowth.

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