The Pheasant Family (Phasianidae) contains the most economically important Birds in the world. Members of the Pheasant Family are plump birds that lack long-range flying ability, preferring to run and hide from danger. Peacocks (Blue Peafowl) and Pheasants are noted for the Males’ ornamental and elaborate plumage. These Males display their train of feathers during breeding season to woo the Hens. However, their cousins, Partridges and Old World Quail, are less brightly colored.
The Pheasant Family, except for Congo Peafowl, is native to Asia. Members of this family now live worldwide because people brought Them along for their food, and for ornamental and sport uses. Pheasants arrived in Northern and Central Europe by way of the Romans and the Greeks. Meanwhile, Royalty imported Peacocks for their ornamental gardens. In the 19th Century, sportsmen in England and the United States bred Pheasants and Partridges for sport hunting.
In their native Asia, members of the Pheasant Family usually live in wooded areas where They can not be seen. Secretive birds, They will disappear into the dense underbrush when They sense someone approaching. Because of their shyness, Few Members of the Pheasant Family have been observed in the wild.
When Pheasants were introduced into Great Britain and the United States, They took to the open fields, living at the edges of crop plantings and open woodlands. Places where They can roost and run from danger are where you find Pheasants and their cousins. When They feed in open fields, Pheasants hide in the vegetation and run zigzag to prevent from being caught. These Birds have strong legs and short powerful wings.
Hardy Birds, Members of the Pheasant Family have flourished where They are introduced. Growing well in captivity, several species have escaped into the wild and started wild populations. They flourish where transplanted, unlike many other animals. Many Members of the Pheasant Family are now considered native species in Europe and North America.
Known for their hardiness, Members of the Pheasant Family have adapted to life where They are not native. They managed to thrive in spite of the odds. Employ their hardy spirit, when you find yourself in a strange place.
Pheasant's Teachings Also Include:
“Pheasant's sudden or unexpected appearance usually heralds positive harmonious connection with another person.” Copyright: “Animal Messengers” by Scott Alexander King
Take time to read what Individual Pheasant teachers have to teach.
Conservation Note: Due to loss of habitat, Pheasant are a threatened species in their native Asia.
Malaysian Fire Crested Pheasant Photo courtesy of WhoZoo.
Va. Carper