Chukar च्याखुरा

Chukar (च्याखुरा) (Alectoris chukar) is a medium-sized game bird belonging to the pheasant family (Phasianidae). It is recognized by its greyish-brown body, black band across the forehead and eyes, white throat bordered by a distinctive black necklace, and red bill and legs.

In Nepal, Chukars inhabit dry, rocky mountain slopes, open hillsides and alpine scrublands, mainly in the Himalayan region. They are commonly found in the higher-altitude landscapes of Manang and Mustang. They primarily feed on seeds, grasses, leaves and small invertebrates.

Chukars are usually seen in pairs or small flocks and are well adapted to rugged mountainous terrain. Their loud, repeated calls are a characteristic sound of the Himalayan hills.