The grey junglefowl (Gallus sonneratii), also known as Sonnerat's junglefowl, is one of the wild ancestors of the domestic chicken together with the red junglefowl and other junglefowl. The species epithet commemorates the French explorer Pierre Sonnerat. DNA studies of the grey junglefowl and domestic chicken, point to the early integration of the virus DNA into the genome of Gallus, and as such, it is believed to be the ancestral species of domestic chicken.
The populations from the region of Mount Abu in Rajasthan named as the subspecies wangyeli is usually not recognized.
In this article, we will delve deep into the intriguing world of the grey junglefowl and explore its presence in Nepal.
Characteristics of the Grey Junglefowl
The grey junglefowl is characterized by remarkable sexual dimorphism. Males boast a brilliant mix of red, blue, and black feathers, with their distinct metallic-grey plumage extending down their backs to their tails. They also display iridescent red-orange hackles on their necks which shimmer impressively under sunlight. The pale, double-spurred legs in males become darker towards maturity. Female grey junglefowl is smaller and predominantly brown with intricate white speckling that serves as an excellent camouflage for nesting sites. It is primarily ground-dwelling and showcases a myriad of fascinating behaviors, from elaborate mating rituals to complex social dynamics.
Habitat and Diet
Favoring densely forested areas, grey junglefowl primarily resides in deciduous and evergreen forests throughout India and parts of Sri Lanka. They can survive at both sea level and altitudes of up to 2,500 meters. Their preference for lush vegetation provides ample cover from predators and rich feeding grounds. They are predominantly omnivorous, feasting on a diverse diet of seeds, fruits, insects, and small vertebrates.
Grey Junglefowl in Nepal
Although not as frequently sighted as its more well-known counterpart, the red junglefowl (Gallus gallus), the grey junglefowl has been documented in isolated regions of central and western Nepal including some national parks such as Bardia National Park. Moreover, there have been increasing reports of sightings in recent years, signaling a potential expansion or shift in distribution within Nepal's diverse ecosystems.
Conservation and Challenges
One of the major challenges faced by the grey junglefowl is the loss of its natural habitat due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and human encroachment. Deforestation has not only shrunk their range but also made it more difficult for them to find adequate food resources and nesting sites. Furthermore, hunting pressures and hybridization with domestic chickens further threaten the species' survival.
In conclusion, the grey junglefowl is a fascinating bird whose beauty and elusive nature have captivated avid bird watchers in Nepal and across the Indian subcontinent. As we continue to learn more about this remarkable species and its shifting distribution in Nepal, it is essential to focus conservation efforts on preserving its natural habitat. By doing so, we can ensure that these spectacular birds continue to grace our forests for generations to come.