Cheer Pheasant and Koklass Pheasant in Ranikhet | Summer Birding in Uttarakhand | Birding India

A rare and unforgettable moment from our recent Uttarakhand birding tour — witnessing both the magnificent Cheer Pheasant and Koklass Pheasant together at the same spot and at the same time. Even more special, we observed a pair of each species quietly moving through the same hillside habitat alongside our guests. Encounters like these remind us how rich and fragile the Himalayan forests truly are. The Cheer Pheasant is one of India’s most habitat-sensitive pheasants, surviving mainly in open grassy mountain slopes mixed with scrub and scattered forest patches. Unlike many other pheasants, Cheer prefers landscapes that are easily affected by seasonal forest fires. Every summer, uncontrolled fires sweep through these hills, destroying grass cover, nesting areas, insects, fresh shoots, and shelter that many Himalayan birds depend upon. For species like the Cheer Pheasant, this damage can directly affect breeding success and long-term survival. During our session, the contrast was emotional — on one side, the beauty of seeing these iconic Himalayan pheasants in their natural habitat, and on the other, visible signs of burnt slopes and damaged vegetation caused by recent fires. The forest may appear green again after monsoon, but the impact on nesting birds, reptiles, insects, and mountain flora remains for a long time. The Koklass Pheasant, usually more secretive and associated with denser forest edges, sharing the same area with Cheer made the sighting even more unique. Watching both species together offered a rare glimpse into the diversity of Himalayan pheasant habitats and how interconnected these ecosystems are. Moments like these are exactly why conservation awareness matters. The Himalayas are not only beautiful landscapes for birding and photography — they are delicate ecosystems where every fire, every disturbance, and every habitat loss leaves a lasting effect on wildlife. We feel fortunate to have shared this incredible sighting with our guests during the tour, and we hope this video also highlights the importance of protecting these mountain habitats for future generations of birds and birders alike. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Welcome to Nature Quantum 🌿 – a channel dedicated to the beauty of nature, birdwatching, and Himalayan journeys. Here you’ll discover: 🦉 Bird Watching Videos – from rare Himalayan pheasants to colorful warblers and woodpeckers. 🌍 Nature & Travel Films – exploring forests, rivers, hidden lakes, and pristine landscapes. 🚁 Drone Footage – stunning aerial views of valleys, lakes, and mountains. 🏔 Himalayan & Mountain Expeditions – showcasing the wildlife, people, and culture of the highlands. 👣 Guided Experiences – insights from naturalists and birding guides. ------------------------------------------- Connect us on Insta :   / sakshinaturalist   Connect us on facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... Connect us on X (Twitter) : https://x.com/birdingindia ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ✨ Our aim is to bring you closer to the wilderness — whether it’s the calm of a hidden lake, the call of a Himalayan bird, or the serenity of untouched forests. About Our Travel Company We are part of Quantum Explorer Inc, a travel company specializing in nature-based tours and birdwatching experiences across India. With years of expertise, we design and operate: ✔️ Birding Tours – in top hotspots like Sattal, Munsyari, Corbett, Chopta, Pangot, and beyond. ✔️ Nature & Cultural Tours – combining wildlife with local heritage, food, and traditions. ✔️ Customized Itineraries – tailored journeys for individuals, families, photographers, and birders from India and abroad. ✔️ Eco-Friendly Travel – promoting conservation, responsible tourism, and sustainable practices. Whether you want a short escape to the Himalayas or a multi-day wildlife expedition, we help you create memorable journeys that balance adventure with peace. 📩 For collaborations, travel planning, or guided tours, connect with us through the details in our channel.