Ring-necked Pheasant (Common Pheasant)

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.

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.

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.

Smooth, stiff, and somewhat glossy. The surface is durable and designed to withstand dragging on the ground or through brush.

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.

Open grasslands, agricultural fields, hedgerows, and brushy areas near water. They prefer a mix of tall grass for nesting and crops for foraging.

Native to Asia, but widely introduced and naturalized across North America, Europe, and parts of Oceania. Widespread across the northern and central United States.

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.

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).

Male pheasants are polygynous, often maintaining a harem of several females. Their long tail feathers are used in elaborate courtship displays to attract mates.

The feather appears in Good condition with some minor fraying near the base and mid-section, likely from environmental wear or the molt process.