Golden Pheasant
Image: 管牧山 (cc-by-nc)
NameGolden Pheasant
Common NameGolden Pheasant
Scientific NameChrysolophus pictus
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)70
Length (cm)97.5
Weight (g)675
Plumage DetailsMales are highly ornamental with a golden crest, an orange-red ruff barred with black, a metallic green upper back, and bright red lower back and underparts. Their long tail is light brown with black barring. Females are much duller, mottled brown with fine barring.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a metallic 'chick-chick' call and a harsh 'chak-chak' alarm call. Males also produce a hissing sound during courtship displays.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, shrubland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to the mountainous forests and dense thickets of western and central China. Feral populations have been established in various parts of the world, notably in the United Kingdom.
Identifying FeaturesMale's golden crest, Male's orange-red ruff (cape), Male's metallic green upper back, Male's bright red underparts, Very long, barred tail in males, Shy, ground-dwelling behavior
Description
The Golden Pheasant is a strikingly colorful gamebird native to western China, known for its vibrant plumage. Males display a brilliant golden crest and a distinctive orange-red ruff, often foraging shyly on the forest floor.
