Ring-necked Pheasant

This is a classic long, barred tail feather from a male Ring-necked Pheasant. These birds are large, chicken-like fowl with males sporting iridescent green heads, red faces, and spectacular flamboyant plumage.

Tawny brown base with distinct, dark brown to black horizontal barring. The outer web shows intricate vermiculation (fine wavy lines) and a buff-colored edge.

Primarily pennaceous with a stiff, interlocked structure for flight stability, transitioning to plumulaceous (downy) at the very base.

Stiff, dry, and somewhat coarse to the touch. The surface is matte with a slight waxy sheen on the darker bars.

Distinctive dark horizontal barring on a golden-brown background, extreme length, and stiff, asymmetrical taper.

Open grasslands, agricultural fields, hedgerows, and brushy areas near water.

Native to Asia but widely introduced across North America, Europe, and Hawaii as a game bird.

Generalist omnivore consuming seeds and insects; serves as a major prey species for raptors and foxes.

Wild Turkey tail feathers (much broader and darker) and Ruffed Grouse (shorter with a wide subterminal band).

Male pheasants can have tail feathers up to 20 inches long. They are loud, 'croaking' birds that rely on explosive short-burst flight to escape predators.

Good condition; minor fraying at the base and tip suggests it was a naturally molted feather exposed to some field wear.