Human Noise Pushes Himalayan Monal Calls Higher, Longer : Study

• A recent peer-reviewed study conducted by researchers from Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University (HNBGU) has highlighted the impact of anthropogenic (human-generated) noise on Uttarakhand's state bird, the Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus).
• Key Highlights of the Study
• Vocal Adjustments: The study found that Himalayan Monals living in noisier habitats (such as Chopta Valley near tourist and trekking routes) raise the peak frequency of their calls and slightly lengthen their call durations compared to those in undisturbed environments (like Madmaheshwar Valley).
• Overcoming Noise Masking: Researchers noted that this shift allows birds to overcome acoustic masking caused by low-frequency human noise, marking the first evidence of noise-driven vocal change in a Himalayan galliform bird.
• Conservation Concerns: With expanding tourism, trekking, and infrastructure projects adding to the acoustic disturbance in sensitive Himalayan ecosystems, scientists have called for targeted noise management measures to protect wildlife communication and long-term ecological balance.

PRELIMS MCQ 

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Himalayan Monal:

1. It is the state bird of Uttarakhand.

2. It is a galliform bird belonging to the pheasant family.

3. Recent studies indicate that human-induced noise has no impact on their vocal communication patterns.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 only

B) 1 and 2 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (B) 1 and 2 only

Explanation: Statement 1 is correct as the Himalayan Monal is the state bird of Uttarakhand. Statement 2 is correct as it belongs to the galliform order and the pheasant family (Phasianidae). 

Statement 3 is incorrect because recent scientific findings demonstrate that human-generated noise prompts them to alter their vocalizations by calling higher and longer.