 PHOTO: JEAN HOWMAN |
PHOTO: JEAN HOWMAN |
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This large group of pheasants is comprised of one species and nine recognized subspecies. The Kalij are primarily forest dwelling birds with some occupying dense jungles. They inhabit the southern foothills of the Himalayan Mountains and range from Pakistan in the west, across northern India and Nepal through upper Burma. Some subspecies are found as far south as Bangladesh. These pheasants have so far proved adaptable to man and the changes he has made in their environment. To date, none of the subspecies are listed as endangered.
The Kalij have generally proved hardy and easy to breed in captivity. They have a history, however, of being neglected by aviculturists and some subspecies once present in captivity have now been lost. The most commonly held subspecies are the Nepal L. 1. Ieucomelana and the White-crested L. 1. hamiltoni. The Lineated Kalij L. l. lineata, a handsome species, was once present in captivity but has now been lost. A similar species, the Crawfurd's Kalij L. 1. crawfurdi, continues to survive in Europe and North America.
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| Avicultural Notes | |
| Minimum aviary size | 200 sq. ft. (18.5 m2) on grass base |
| Status in captivity | Nepal Kalij numerous, but other subspecies vulnerable to rare |
| Full adult plumage | First year |
| Egg clutch size | 9 - 15 eggs |
| Incubation Period | 24 - 25 days |
| Feeding Habits | Standard pheasant feed |