tragopan

bird

Also known as: horned pheasant

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

Tragopans are a genus of brilliantly colored Asiatic pheasants. The males are particularly striking, with ocelli (eye-like markings) on their backs and breasts, and distinctive head ornamentation. These include two bright-colored wattles and a pair of fleshy, erectile horns. The name "tragopan" itself comes from Greek, combining "he-goat" and the god Pan, hinting at their unique appearance.1

One example is the crimson tragopan (Tragopan satyra), a species native to India. This bird is known for its crimson plumage, also marked with white ocelli, and is considered a favorite game bird.2

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pheasant
The male tragopans, or horned pheasants (Tragopan species), of Asia also, are among the world’s most colourful birds. They show a bright apron of flesh under the bill during courtship, and short fleshy horns. The white-spotted plumage may be mainly red, yellow, or gray.
Read More
The male tragopans, or horned pheasants (Tragopan species), of Asia also, are among the world’s most colourful birds. They show a bright apron of flesh under the bill during courtship, and short fleshy horns. The white-spotted plumage may be mainly red, yellow, or gray.
Read More