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 (Partridges, Grouse, and Turkeys) · Contour feather (Body feather), likely from the upper wing coverts or thoracic region
Species
Phasianus colchicus; Confidence level: High (95%)
Feather Type
Contour feather (Body feather), likely from the upper wing coverts or thoracic region
Family
Phasianidae (Partridges, Grouse, and Turkeys)
Shape
Symmetrical, elongated-oval shape with a rounded tip; broad for its length without significant tapering or notching
Size
Approximately 1.5 to 2.25 inches (4-6 cm) in length. This is standard for a medium-sized body contour feather on a pheasant
Rarity
Common (Abundant in appropriate agricultural and grassland habitats)
Color & Pattern
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
Barb Structure
The upper two-thirds are pennaceous with interlocked barbs; the basal third is plumulaceous (downy) with loose, soft barbs providing insulation
Texture & Surface
Smooth and glossy on the pennaceous portion with a slightly waxy, water-resistant surface; basal section is very soft and matte
Description
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.
Key Features
Distinctive ivory-white rachis; bold dark V-shaped or U-shaped internal banding; contrast between the light tan edges and dark mahogany-brown center
Habitat
Found in agricultural fields, grasslands, brushy areas, and hedgerows; requires a mix of cover for nesting and open areas for foraging
Geographic Range
Native to Asia; widely introduced and established across North America, Europe, and parts of Oceania as a resident (non-migratory) species
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; shows some wear along the margins and slight separation of barbs (unzipping) at the tip; likely a naturally molted feather
Interesting Facts
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
Ecological Role
Functions as a generalist feeder (seeds, insects); serves as a primary prey species for foxes, hawks, and owls; helps with seed dispersal
Similar Species
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