Ring-necked Pheasant (Common Pheasant)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Galliformes, Family: Phasianidae, Genus: Phasianus, Species: Phasianus colchicus · Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Allies) · Tail feather (rectrix), likely one of the central pairs (R1 or R2)
Species
Phasianus colchicus
Feather Type
Tail feather (rectrix), likely one of the central pairs (R1 or R2)
Family
Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Allies)
Shape
Extremely elongated, tapered, and slender; acuminate tip with nearly symmetrical vanes typical of central tail feathers in this genus.
Size
Approximately 18-22 inches in length. This is consistent with a mature male's central tail feather, which can reach up to 24 inches.
Rarity
Common in suitable agricultural and grassland habitats. They are one of the most widely recognized game birds in the world.
Color & Pattern
Golden-tan or buff base color with bold, dark brown to black horizontal barring (tiger-striping). The outer edges of the vanes often show a purplish or pinkish iridescent sheen.
Barb Structure
Pennaceous and stiff throughout most of the length; barbs are tightly interlocked. The base shows a small amount of plumulaceous (downy) structure near the calamus.
Texture & Surface
Smooth, stiff, and somewhat glossy. The surface is durable and designed to withstand dragging on the ground or through brush.
Description
This is a central tail feather from a male (cock) Ring-necked Pheasant. The bird is a large, chicken-like bird with a jewel-toned green head, white neck ring, and iridescent copper body. The tail is its most striking feature, held horizontally or tilted up during displays.
Key Features
Extreme length, bold black horizontal barring on a golden-brown background, and a stiff, thick central rachis. Distinctive pinkish-purple iridescence on the vane margins.
Habitat
Open grasslands, agricultural fields, hedgerows, and brushy areas near water. They prefer a mix of tall grass for nesting and crops for foraging.
Geographic Range
Native to Asia, but widely introduced and naturalized across North America, Europe, and parts of Oceania. Widespread across the northern and central United States.
Condition Notes
The feather appears in Good condition with some minor fraying near the base and mid-section, likely from environmental wear or the molt process.
Interesting Facts
Male pheasants are polygynous, often maintaining a harem of several females. Their long tail feathers are used in elaborate courtship displays to attract mates.
Ecological Role
Primarily a seed and insect eater; serves as a significant prey species for foxes, hawks, and owls. They are often used as indicators of healthy grassland and agricultural ecosystems.
Similar Species
Reeves's Pheasant (much longer, white/black pattern), Lady Amherst's Pheasant (white/black or green patterns), and various large Hawk species (which have wider, shorter, mottled feathers).