Ring-necked Pheasant; also known as the Common Pheasant.
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Galliformes, Family: Phasianidae, Genus: Phasianus, Species: Phasianus colchicus · Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Partridges) · Contour (body feather)
Species
Phasianus colchicus
Feather Type
Contour (body feather)
Family
Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Partridges)
Shape
Broad, rounded, and symmetrical. The tip is slightly heart-shaped or indented due to the distinctive color patterning across the distal end.
Size
Approximately 1.5 to 2.5 inches in length. This is a small body feather consistent with the flank or upper breast region of a male pheasant.
Rarity
Common. In many regions, they are abundant due to naturalization and active stocking for game hunting.
Color & Pattern
Highly distinctive tri-colored pattern. Base and downy sections are charcoal gray; the pennaceous portion features a buff/cream 'V' shape bordered by a rich chocolate brown or black band, ending in a vibrant rufous or burnt-orange outer fringe.
Barb Structure
Dual structure: The lower half is plumulaceous (soft, fluffy down) for insulation, while the upper distal portion is pennaceous (firm, interlocked barbs) for protection and display.
Texture & Surface
The lower section is extremely soft and downy (matte). The upper patterned section is smooth, somewhat stiff, and has a slight waxy or glossy sheen characteristic of ornamental galliform feathers.
Description
This feather comes from the male Ring-necked Pheasant, a large, chicken-like bird with a very long, pointed tail. Males are spectacular with iridescent green heads, red facial skin, a white neck ring, and body plumage composed of intricate gold, brown, and copper feathers like this specimen.
Key Features
The most diagnostic feature is the cream-colored 'V' pattern bordered by dark brown and orange on a rounded crown, combined with a gray downy base.
Habitat
Open country, including agricultural fields, grasslands, hedgerows, and brushy edges. They prefer areas with tall grass or crops for cover and nesting.
Geographic Range
Native to Asia but widely introduced and naturalized across North America, Europe, and parts of Oceania. They are non-migratory permanent residents.
Condition Notes
The feather appears to be in Good to Excellent condition. The pennaceous barbs are well-aligned, and the downy section is full, suggesting it was recently molted or shed.
Interesting Facts
Pheasants are 'explosive' fliers; when startled, they can flush nearly vertically with a loud whirring of wings. Though they can fly at up to 40 mph, they prefer to run from danger.
Ecological Role
They serve as a prey species for many medium-to-large raptors and mammals. They are also opportunistic omnivores, consuming seeds, grains, and insects.
Similar Species
Grey Partridge feathers are more finely vermiculated; California Quail feathers are smaller and lack the bold 'V' pattern; Ruffed Grouse feathers typically feature more mottled, 'eye' or 'leaf' patterns.