Swinhoe’s Pheasant

(Lophura swinhoii)

Also known as the as the Taiwan blue pheasant, the Swinhoe’s Pheasant is considered near-threatened due to habitat loss and capture for trade. Found in the mountain forests of central Taiwan, at one time the wild population came close to extinction with less than 200 birds remaining. Thanks to the establishment of nature reserves and national parks, and the reintroduction of captive-bred birds, wild numbers are now stable in the protected areas, but may be declining elsewhere due to hunting and habitat loss.

Threats to species:

Heavy hunting pressure was a problem for it in the past, but is no longer a serious threat. Deforestation is still a threat outside protected areas, and there is the risk that sub-populations will become isolated in the future.

Conservation Today for Wildlife Tomorrow