Issue: Pakistan Western tragopan ( Tragopan melanocephalus ) Stamp
Type: Stamp
Number of Stamps: 1
Stamps Denomination: 40P,
Issue Date: 1981
Issued By: Pakistan POST
Western Tragopan A Rare Mountain Bird
The Western Tragopan is one of the most beautiful and uncommon pheasants associated with the mountains of Pakistan. Its scientific name is Tragopan melanocephalus. The male has a dark head with a small crest and striking red and orange coloring around the neck and breast. Its body has a detailed pattern of dark and light markings with small white spots. These features give the bird a distinctive appearance that makes it highly attractive to bird lovers and collectors. The species is also known locally as Dargi. It is closely connected with the forested mountain regions of northern Pakistan.
A Treasure of Pakistan Mountain Forests
This remarkable pheasant lives in steep forested areas where human access is difficult. It has been associated with regions including Hazara and Azad Kashmir at high elevations. The bird prefers thick forests and can move quietly through bushes when disturbed. During the breeding season the male produces a loud call which can be heard from its forest surroundings. It feeds on wild fruits berries and fresh green leaves. The Western Tragopan has faced serious pressure because of its limited habitat and declining population. Its inclusion in Pakistan’s wildlife stamp series helped draw attention to the importance of protecting this rare species.
A Stamp Celebrating Wildlife Conservation
Pakistan Post issued two denominations for the Western Tragopan in 1981. The set included a 40 Paisa stamp and a Rs. 2 stamp. Both designs featured the same rare pheasant and formed the seventh wildlife issue in the conservation series. The purpose was not only to create an attractive postal design but also to encourage greater awareness of Pakistan’s wildlife. This stamp is especially interesting for collectors because it combines natural history with the country’s early wildlife conservation themes. Its colorful illustration captures the unusual beauty of the Western Tragopan while preserving a small piece of Pakistan’s philatelic and natural heritage.