The Cheer Pheasant faces increasing threats from hunting, habitat degradation and human disturbance. Although several studies have been carried out within protected areas, important habitats outside the protected area network, such as Barekot IBA, remain poorly studied. With a motive to understand the status of the species, a field survey of the globally threatened Cheer pheasant was conducted by a team of Bird Conservation Nepal (BCN) at Barekot IBA, Jajarkot, from 6–20 May 2026 as part of an ongoing conservation initiative grant funded by World Pheasant Association, UK.

The survey aimed to assess the spatial distribution and estimate the population size of the species through systematic call count surveys across suitable habitats within the IBA. Furthermore, the team also explored potential habitat sites of the neighboring district (Rukum West). The findings from this study will contribute to the systematic population estimate and mapped distribution of the species at Barekot IBA, while also helping identify priority areas for future conservation interventions. The project additionally aims to strengthen local stewardship through conservation awareness programs targeting schools and communities living in and around Barekot IBA in the coming months.