Golden Pheasant

Chrysolophus pictus

Rare & local introduction with an established breeding population in Scotland, Dorset & East Anglia, dying out.

Originally from the mountains of South Central China.

Males have a scarlet breast, and scarlet and light chestnut flanks and underparts.

Lower legs and feet are a dull yellow.

Females are much less showy than the Male, with a duller mottled brown plumage similar to that of the Female Common Pheasant, but is darker and more slender.

The Female's breast and sides are barred buff and blackish brown, and the abdomen is plain buff.

She has a buff face and throat.

Both Males and Females have yellow legs and yellow bills.

During the breeding season, the Male has a metallic call.