White Eared Pheasant
Class: Birds
Order: Galliformes
Family: Phasianidae
Weight: 1.5–2 kg (males), 1–1.2 kg (females)
Height: 45–55 cm, wingspan: 60–80 cm
Coloration: The white eared pheasant stands out with its striking appearance. Males have predominantly white plumage with a subtle pearlescent sheen that reflects bluish or greenish hues in sunlight. A distinctive feature is the “eared” feather tufts on their heads, giving the bird a unique look. Females have more modest plumage in grayish-brown tones with spots, which help them remain inconspicuous during nesting.
Age of Sexual Maturity: 1 year
Nesting Period: 22–26 days
Lifespan: Up to 6–8 years in the wild, up to 12 years in captivity
Habitat Range: The white eared pheasant is endemic to Southeast Asia, inhabiting forests and mountainous regions in China, Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam. It prefers dense woodland areas with undergrowth, where it can find shelter and food.
Diet: White eared pheasants are omnivorous. They consume a variety of vegetation, including seeds, fruits, berries, as well as insects and other invertebrates. They often forage on the ground among leaf litter or climb shrubs to find food.
Did You Know?
- White eared pheasants are named after the distinctive feather tufts on their heads that resemble “ears,” making them easily recognizable.
- Males attract females with spectacular courtship displays, spreading their striking feathers and showcasing their elegant plumage.
- Despite their snowy white coloring, these pheasants are cautious and secretive, preferring to stay in the shadows of trees or shrubs.
- In Chinese culture, the white eared pheasant symbolizes beauty and refinement, frequently depicted in art, carpets, and decorative items.