The Tibetan eared pheasant, also called Elwes' eared pheasant, is a species of bird in the family Phasianidae found in southeast Tibet and adjacent northern India, usually between 3,000 and 5,000 m elevation, but has been seen down to 2,280 m (7,500 ft) in winter. The species is named after Henry John Harman.
Region
Tibetan Plateau and eastern Himalaya
Typical Environment
Occurs in southeast Tibet (China) and adjacent parts of northern India on high, forested slopes and subalpine scrub. Typical habitats include coniferous and mixed forests with rhododendron and juniper understory, alpine meadows, and forest edge mosaics. It favors south-facing slopes where snow cover is patchier in winter and will descend slightly to lower elevations during severe weather. Birds often feed along forest clearings, streamside thickets, and occasionally near remote settlements in winter.
Altitude Range
2280–5000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This high-altitude pheasant is adapted to life on steep, snowy slopes and often prefers to run uphill rather than take long flights. It forages by powerful scratching, digging up roots and tubers even through crusted snow. The species is named after Henry John Harman and is sometimes confused with Elwes’s eared pheasant (Crossoptilon elwesi), a different species found in China.
Temperament
social and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats followed by glides
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it forms tight coveys that move together while foraging and roosting. In spring, birds pair to nest on the ground under dense shrubs or grass tussocks, with the female incubating and both adults guarding the brood. Coveys may re-form after breeding, especially in late summer and autumn.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, far-carrying series of resonant cackles and trumpeting notes, often delivered in chorus by covey members. Dawn and dusk bouts are typical, with harsh alarm calls when disturbed.
