The elusive Ruby Mountain Himalayan snowcock visited my campsite Sunday, August 23, 2020. There were more than two of these birds that visited, but I was too slow with my phone to capture any others.
"The Himalayan Snowcock are native to Pakistan and Kashmir. Some Himalayan Snowcock from Pakistan where introduced into the Ruby Mountains between 1963 and 1979 from numerous releases. ....
Snowcock feed on grasses, sedges and forbs that are found on steep rocky slopes and ledges.
Himalayan Snowcock can be found in many places in the Ruby Mountains. These places include Thomas Peak, Wines Peak, Ruby Dome, Mount Gilbert, Verdi Peak and Old Man on the Mountain. Most of these peaks are over 11,000 feet." ¹
And sometimes, apparently, at the Terraces Campground and Picnic Area, ~8,440 feet elevation.
" During the summer months Snowcock are usually found toward the top of the ridges. In winter months there have been sightings in the cliffs across from Camp Lamoille at elevations around 8500 feet. Even though these elevations are low the terrain in very steep and treacherous."¹
Here are the uncropped photos.
¹http://www.backpackingintherubymountains.info/himalayan/snowcock.html
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