A rare nine-coloured Himalayan monal spotted flashing beautiful rainbow feathers in Bhutan

A rare nine-coloured Himalayan monal spotted in Bhutan (Image: hasamnisdrsudhir/Instagram)

A rare male Himalayan monal was photographed flying over Bhutan’s high valleys, revealing its striking iridescent feathers in shades of blue, green, purple, gold and orange. Found across Bhutan, Nepal, northern India and Tibet, the species thrives above 4,500 metres and is Nepal’s national bird. Experts confirm its vivid colours are natural, created by feather structure rather than filters, highlighting the extraordinary beauty of Himalayan wildlife.

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A rare nine coloured Himalayan monal was recently photographed flying above Bhutan’s mountain valleys, drawing attention for its striking rainbow like plumage and natural iridescent glow.

The male Himalayan monal appeared mid flight. The sighting occurred over Bhutan’s high mountains. Images showed vivid flashes across its body. Viewers described the scene as breathtaking. The bird shimmered under bright mountain sunlight. Its feathers reflected blue, green and purple. Hints of gold and orange gleamed brightly. Many compared it to a flying jewel.

Himalayan Monal’s Natural Rainbow Colours

Often called the jewel of Himalayas, the species is famed for brilliance. The male displays intense iridescent plumage. Light bends across microscopic feather structures. This creates shifting metallic colour effects. Shades of emerald and copper appear instantly. Violet and deep blue follow swiftly. The spectacle changes with every movement. Experts note colours are entirely natural. They are shaped by feather structure alone. No filters create these dramatic hues.

The Himalayan monal is a pheasant species. It inhabits high altitude Himalayan regions. Populations range across Bhutan and Nepal. They are also found in northern India. Parts of Tibet host the species. The bird thrives above 4,500 metres elevation. It prefers alpine meadows and forests.

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Flight Over Bhutan’s High Valleys

Though mainly ground dwelling, it can fly. Short bursts help cross steep terrain. Flight also helps escape potential threats. The photographed monal was airborne briefly. It soared above Bhutan’s rugged valleys. Observers captured the radiant moment clearly.

The species is culturally significant regionally. It serves as Nepal’s national bird. Its loud calls echo across valleys. Communities regard it as mountain wildlife symbol.

Symbol of Himalayan Wildlife

Wildlife enthusiasts welcomed the recent sighting. They said nature needs no enhancement. While images may heighten tones slightly, experts confirm the species appears equally vivid naturally. The spectacle highlights Himalayan biodiversity richness. It also underlines the importance of habitat protection.

Disclaimer: This content is informational only. Details are based on available reports. The referenced image is for illustration. Readers should consult official sources for confirmation.