Introduced species

Latin name

Chrysolophus amherstiae

Family

Partridges, quails, pheasants and allies (Phasianidae)

Overview

A very secretive pheasant which runs rather than fly. The male is very colourful with an extremely long black and white tail, greenish back, red and yellow rump and black-and-white neck ruff. Females are similar to pheasant. This introduced species from China survives in small numbers, mainly in Bedfordshire.

Where to see them

Virtually confined to a handful of woods in Bedfordshire.

When to see them

All year round. Best looked for in early morning.

What they eat

Seeds, berries and roots.

Estimated numbers

EuropeUK breeding*UK wintering*UK passage*
-Less than 10 pairs/territories--

* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn.

Distribution

Key

Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.

2 illustrations

Illustrations
Lady Amherst's pheasant male

Male

Similar birds

Pheasant male (artwork)

Pheasant