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 (Pheasants, Grouse, and Partridges) · Contour (Body feather), likely from the lower flank or rump area
Species
Phasianus colchicus (Confidence Level: High)
Feather Type
Contour (Body feather), likely from the lower flank or rump area
Family
Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Partridges)
Shape
Symmetrical, broad, and somewhat spatulate with a rounded, slightly frayed tip and a plumulaceous base
Size
Estimated 6-8 cm in length and 2-3 cm in width; consistent with pheasant body contour feathers
Rarity
Common; abundant in appropriate agricultural and grassland habitats across its introduced range
Color & Pattern
Mottled brown and buff base with distinctive dark brown or blackish subterminal barring. The rachis area is pale, creating a 'ladder' effect with dark horizontal bands
Barb Structure
Mixed: dense plumulaceous (fluffy) barbs at the base for insulation; distal pennaceous barbs are loosely interlocked with visible separation (typical of flank feathers)
Texture & Surface
Semi-stiff upper pennaceous section with a matte finish; the basal half is extremely soft, downy, and insulating
Description
A medium-sized, ground-dwelling bird. Males are spectacular with iridescent green heads, red faces, and golden-brown barred bodies. The feather shows the classic intricate earth-tone patterns that provide camouflage while on the ground.
Key Features
Distinctive horizontal 'barring' pattern, thick cream-colored rachis, and the large downy base characteristic of Galliformes (game birds)
Habitat
Agricultural fields, grasslands, hedgerows, and brushy areas; often found near grain crops and suburban edges with tall grass
Geographic Range
Native to Asia; widely introduced and established across North America, Europe, and parts of Oceania. Resident year-round in most areas
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant 'zipper' separation of the barbs and some wear/fraying at the tip, suggesting a naturally shed (molted) feather or one lost during preening
Interesting Facts
Despite their ornate appearance, these birds are fast runners and powerful fliers over short distances, capable of 'bursting' nearly vertically to escape predators
Ecological Role
Primary consumer and seed disperser; serves as a significant prey species for hawks, foxes, and coyotes in agricultural ecosystems
Similar Species
Ruffed Grouse (shorter, different barring), Wild Turkey (larger, darker), or female Northern Harrier (different texture and shape)