Blue Eared-Pheasant
NameBlue Eared-Pheasant
Common NameBlue Eared-Pheasant
Scientific NameCrossoptilon auritum
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)96
Weight (g)2000
Plumage DetailsThe body plumage is a uniform blue-grey. The head features a velvety black crown, bright red bare facial skin surrounding a yellow eye, and prominent white ear tufts that extend backwards. The bill is horn-colored, and the tail is long and dark blue-grey.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, harsh, crow-like calls, often described as 'caw-caw' or 'kok-kok-kok', used for communication and alarm.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to central China, primarily found in the mountains of Sichuan, Gansu, and Qinghai provinces.
Identifying Featuresblue-grey body plumage, velvety black crown, bright red bare facial skin, prominent white ear tufts, yellow eye, long tail feathers
Description
This large, striking pheasant is characterized by its predominantly blue-grey plumage, a velvety black crown, and prominent white ear tufts. It is a ground-dwelling bird, typically found foraging for roots and seeds in mountainous forest habitats.
