photo by Phil Swanson

Phasianus colchicus
Male L 33″(84 cm), Female L 21″(53 cm).

Song or calls:
Territorial “kok-cack” crow given by male. First note is stressed.

Description: Male longer due to flashy pointed tail. Iridescent green-black head and scarlet wattles. White neck ring (can be lacking). Body is bronze and mottled with brown, black, and green. Female is buffy and dull with much shorter pointed tail.

Habitat: Found throughout the year in croplands, ditches, wooded areas, and shelter belts. Often nests in ditches, alfalfa fields, and areas with heavy grass cover.

Where in Nebraska: Introduced common permanent resident across Nebraska. More common in the east.

Status: Introduced from Asia, now a popular game bird.

Fun Facts: During very bad weather Ring-necked Pheasants will stay on their roosts for several days without eating.

  
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