The Tragopans

There are five species in this genius. Temmincks, Satyr, Cabots, Blyths and Western complete the list Blyths being the rarest in captivity, and Western is virtually non-existent. My experience has been with Temminck, Satyr and Cabots. These three species can be treated very much the same.

Description

Temmincks and Satyr having similar coloration, of shades of red and orange. Satyr is larger with more scarlet red, and a dark blue face. Temmincks have a beautiful sky blue face with more crimson body coloration. The shades of red in the Temmincks and Satyr are replaced in the Cabots, with shades of yellow orange and white. Cabot's bright orange face makes it a very appealing addition to any aviary. The males colour in the second year.

Behaviour

Curious, tame, and non-agresive fit most individuals of these species. The many pairs of Tragopans we keep, joyously wait for the keepers arrival, for their daily treat. Certainly these are the most "unpheasant" like of the pheasants.

Pens

Most of our Tragopans are kept in 6' x 28' or 8' x 24' pens, with the back 8' being covered shelter. Because of these birds need for exercise and flying room, the pen size should be no smaller than this. A grass base can have advantages, because of the birds need for greens. Winter heat is not required.

Breeding

The Tragopans display is a sight to behold. Hard to describe, the male has a fleshy pouch on his face and horns on its head which expand in display. At least two above ground nest boxes should be supplied for the hens by the beginning of April.

Eggs & Chicks

Many hens will lay in their first year, and if kept with a mature male, can be fertile. The first eggs can be expected by April 15. Incubation period is 28 days.

The chicks when dry, are quiet mature and can fly within 24 hours. They can be kept brooded with other pheasant species. Starter feed should be a high protein turkey starter.