Golden Pheasant

Scientific Name: Chrysolophus pictus

Order: Galliformes

Family: Phasianidae

Conservation Status

About

The Golden Pheasant, also called the “Chinese Pheasant,” is a type of pheasant that lives in the mountainous forests of Western and Central China. It is one of the more popular species of pheasant, and is recognizable by the ruff on its face and neck which spread out during courtship.

Find me at EPZ

Location: Outside of Habitat HQ across from the barn.

Arrived at EPZ: 2023

Habitat & Range
These pheasants are native to western China, but feral populations have been established around the world.
Identification
Male Golden Pheasants can be easily identified by their bright coloring. They have a golden crest tipped with red which extends from the top of their heads down to their necks. Female Golden Pheasants are less colorful and more duller than males with brown plumage throughout their bodies.
Diet
Golden Pheasants primarily eat seeds, grains, insects and vegetation.
Reproduction & Lifespan
Female Golden Pheasants typically lay eight to twelve eggs. A typical incubation period lasts between 22 and 23 days. After 12–14 days, the chicks are ready to fly. Adult males are sexually developed by their first year, but don't develop their bright colors until their second. A Golden Pheasant can live for around 5-6 years.
Fantastic Fact
Although golden pheasants can fly in short bursts, they are quite clumsy in flight and spend most of their time on the ground.

Golden Pheasant

Conservation Status

About

Find me at EPZ

Habitat & Range

Identification

Diet

Reproduction & Lifespan

Fantastic Fact