Ring-necked Pheasant; also known as the Common Pheasant
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Galliformes, Family: Phasianidae, Genus: Phasianus, Species: colchicus
Family: Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Partridges)
- Shape
- Extremely elongated, tapered, and slightly curved. The tip is pointed, and the vanes are nearly symmetrical but slim down significantly toward the distal end.
- Size
- Approximately 12 to 18 inches (30-45 cm) in length. This is consistent with the long, decorative tail feathers found in adult males of this species.
- Rarity
- Common in appropriate habitat. As an introduced game bird, they are abundant in many agricultural regions of the United States and Europe.
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Description
This is a signature tail feather from a male Ring-necked Pheasant. These birds are large, chicken-like ground dwellers. Males are spectacular with iridescent green heads, red facial wattles, and white neck rings, while their long, banded tails can reach up to 20 inches in length.
Colour & Pattern
Base color is a golden-brown to tan, marked with bold, dark brown to black horizontal bars (banding). The rachis is light-colored. The pattern provides excellent camouflage in tall grasses while being striking during movement.
Barb Structure
Mostly pennaceous and tightly interlocked along the main vane for aerodynamics and display. The base (calamus area) shows plumulaceous (downy) barbs for insulation. Some minor separation (splitting) is visible mid-vane.
Texture & Surface
The surface is smooth and slightly glossy with a stiff, somewhat plastic-like rigidity in the rachis. The barbs have a silky feel, designed to resist wind but remain flexible enough for display.
Key Features
Extreme length, distinctive dark horizontal banding on a buff-brown background, and a tapering pointed shape typical of Galliformes tail ornaments.
Habitat
Found in agricultural fields, grasslands, brushy areas, and hedgerows. They require thick cover for nesting and open areas for foraging.
Geographic Range
Native to Asia but widely introduced across North America, Europe, and parts of Oceania. They are non-migratory, permanent residents in their established ranges.
Ecological Role
They serve as an important prey species for raptors and foxes. They are also significant seed and insect consumers, often acting as an indicator of healthy grassland/shrubland ecotones.
Similar Species
Wild Turkey (broader, different banding), Cooper's Hawk (shorter, different color tone), or Reeve's Pheasant (much longer, different banding pattern).
Interesting Facts
The Ring-necked Pheasant is the state bird of South Dakota. Despite their size, they can fly at speeds up to 40-60 mph when flushed from cover.
Condition Notes
Good condition. There is a slight 'break' or separation in the vane about one-third of the way up, likely due to mechanical stress or handling after molting. The base remains fuzzy and intact.