By – Addie Chiphang
Ukhrul, May 6:
In a thrilling conservation breakthrough, local biodiversity group Enfogal has successfully captured camera trap footage of the elusive Blyth’s Tragopan in the misty, forested slopes of Shirui. This rare sighting marks a major milestone for the team, following closely on the heels of their earlier documentation of Mrs. Hume’s Pheasant, further cementing Shirui’s reputation as a biodiversity hotspot.
The achievement is all the more extraordinary given the grassroots nature of the effort—carried out with minimal funding but maximum dedication. With guidance from Pamreithing Luireiwo, a local forest expert and conservationist, five camera traps were strategically placed in known habitats. The mission was led by passionate conservationists Patrick Shangh and Shunchui PK, with active support from SC Horzak Zimik, and backed by the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI).
Blyth’s Tragopan, listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, is a notoriously elusive bird species. Its capture on camera is not only a triumph of patience and fieldcraft, but a symbol of hope for conservation in Northeast India. “Since the village banned hunting,” said Pamreithing, “we’ve noticed a powerful change. Birdsong is louder. Rare birds are returning. This is how a forest heals.”
More than just a photograph, the sighting is a validation of Enfogal’s vision—a vision grounded in community-driven conservation, education, and the power of nature-based storytelling. Despite the challenges of working with limited resources, the team continues to inspire local youth and spotlight endangered species in the region.
Enfogal’s latest find underscores the urgent need to support grassroots conservation efforts that blend traditional knowledge with modern tools. It also offers an open invitation to birdwatchers, researchers, and responsible travelers to explore Shirui’s untouched wilds.
This discovery is not just a win for science—it’s a celebration of resilience, dedication, and the wild beauty that still thrives when given a chance.
Enfogal believes: when the forest speaks, we must listen.
