Come night time, and Kalij Pheasants in our forest ascend to upper branches of oak trees to roost

At night, Kalij Pheasants in the western Himalaya forest climb to the upper branches of oak trees to roost, searching lichens and mosses for insects and plant food. The male, with a bright white crest and fleshy red eye patches, emits trilling clicking sounds as it ascends, while the drab brown female follows. They cautiously tread the understory during daylight, pecking at greenery for buds and seeds, and during the peak breeding season their vivid colors attract mates but make camouflage difficult. The pair is often seen at the Wildfilms India sanctuary in Pari Tibba Estate, Mussoorie, where they hide in trees at night and remain active on the ground during the day.