Jagdreise -

(Phasianus colchicus)

The pheasant belongs to the gallinaceous birds (game birds). The cocks (roosters) carry a brilliantly colorful plumage and very long tail feathers (Stoßfedern), whereas the hens have a brownish, inconspicuous coloration. Its natural range spans the countries between the Black Sea, the arid regions of Central Asia, all the way to East Asia.

The pheasant has been introduced for hunting purposes across many countries in Europe, the United States, and numerous other parts of the world. Its natural habitat consists of open forests with undergrowth, semi-open landscapes, or wetlands that provide ample cover. A dynamic alternation between heavy cover and open areas used for foraging is vital for maintaining a stable population. Their primary diet consists of seeds and berries, but also insects and other small invertebrates.

The cock has a body length of 70–90 cm, with roughly half of that consisting of its long tail. Hens are about 10–30 cm smaller and reach a body weight of up to 1.4 kg, while cocks can weigh up to 1.5 kg.

Only the cock carries long spurs on its legs, the length of which can be used to determine its age. Among game pheasants, two primary types can be distinguished: the Bohemian copper pheasant and the Chinese ring-necked pheasant, which differ slightly in the coloration of their plumage.