Ring-necked Pheasant; also known as the Common Pheasant

A striking ground bird where males (cocks) possess iridescent green heads, red facial skin, and long barred tails, while females (hens) are camouflaged in mottled browns and tans. This feather reflects the intricate earth-toned camouflage found on both sexes but is particularly characteristic of the hen or the wing coverts of the cock.

Base color is warm tan or buff, featuring a distinctively bold, dark brown to black 'u-shaped' internal marking that outlines the inner vane; central rachis is pale cream-white; outer margins are lighter tan

The upper two-thirds are pennaceous with interlocked barbs; the basal third is plumulaceous (downy) with loose, soft barbs providing insulation

Smooth and glossy on the pennaceous portion with a slightly waxy, water-resistant surface; basal section is very soft and matte

Distinctive ivory-white rachis; bold dark V-shaped or U-shaped internal banding; contrast between the light tan edges and dark mahogany-brown center

Found in agricultural fields, grasslands, brushy areas, and hedgerows; requires a mix of cover for nesting and open areas for foraging

Native to Asia; widely introduced and established across North America, Europe, and parts of Oceania as a resident (non-migratory) species

Functions as a generalist feeder (seeds, insects); serves as a primary prey species for foxes, hawks, and owls; helps with seed dispersal

Partridge species (e.g., Gray Partridge) have smaller, more chestnut-heavy feathers; Ruffed Grouse feathers typically have a more 'fringed' look and different banding shapes

Despite being an introduced species in many areas, they are one of the world's most hunted birds; they are capable of fast, explosive flight covering short distances but prefer to run from danger

Fair to Good; shows some wear along the margins and slight separation of barbs (unzipping) at the tip; likely a naturally molted feather