Lady Amherst's Pheasant

Lady Amherst's Pheasant key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

15-20 years

Size

1.2-1.5m (male) / 50-70cm (female)

Diet

Pheasant feed, grain, greens, fruit and insects

Cage

The cock's tail approaches a metre, so the aviary needs depth and height as well as floor area, with room behind the perches for the tail.

Temperament

A wary ground bird that likes cover. Cocks fight, so keep only one with the hens.

Vocalization

It is not a conspicuously noisy bird; the cock calls mainly in the breeding season.

Notes

It hybridises readily with the golden pheasant, so keeping the two together produces crosses; house them separately to keep the lines pure.

About Lady Amherst's Pheasant

The Lady Amherst's Pheasant is a vividly colored bird prized for its green-and-white plumage and long tail. Suited to intermediate-level keepers.

7 things to know before welcoming a Lady Amherst's Pheasant

1. 1Needs Spacious Housing

   Males reach 1.2 to 1.5 meters in total length, more than half of which is tail. A cramped enclosure can cause the tail feathers to rub and become damaged, so provide ample depth and height.

2. 2Intermediate Difficulty

   This species is generally rated as suitable for intermediate-level keepers. Prior experience with pheasants helps, but careful preparation and research can make it approachable.

3. 3Striking Sexual Dimorphism

   Males show a vivid green-and-white color scheme with a scarlet crest and a black-and-white cape. Females, at roughly 50 to 70 centimeters, are plain brown in contrast.

4. 4Cautious, Reserved Nature

   This species tends to retain a wary, alert temperament and can be quiet around people. It may take time to grow accustomed to human presence, so patience is key.

5. 5Tail Feather Maintenance

   The long tail is the bird's signature feature but is also prone to soiling and wear. Thoughtful flooring and furnishings, along with a clean environment, help keep it in good shape.

6. 6Behavior Shifts When Breeding

   Males can become more territorial and aggressive toward each other during the breeding season. When keeping multiple birds, watch their interactions closely and separate them if needed.

7. 7Molting and Seasonal Care

   During molting, plumage condition changes and extra attention to overall health is worthwhile. Watch for temperature swings at seasonal transitions and aim to keep conditions stable.

Frequently asked questions about Lady Amherst's Pheasant

Q.Can beginners keep a Lady Amherst's Pheasant?

A.This species is generally considered suitable for intermediate-level keepers. Prior experience with pheasants is helpful, but thorough preparation and a spacious enclosure can make it manageable for motivated beginners.

Q.How different do males and females look?

A.Males display a vivid green-and-white color scheme with a scarlet crest and a black-and-white cape around the neck. Females are much plainer, with subdued brown plumage and a body length of about 50 to 70 centimeters.

Q.How much space does it need?

A.Males can reach 1.2 to 1.5 meters in total length including the tail, so the enclosure needs enough depth and height to prevent the tail feathers from being damaged. A cramped space can easily lead to broken or worn feathers.

Q.Does the long tail require special care?

A.The long tail feathers can easily become soiled or worn, so the choice of flooring and perch placement matters. Keeping the enclosure clean helps the tail stay in good condition.

Q.What is its temperament like?

A.Many individuals tend to be alert and reserved by nature. It can take time for them to become accustomed to people, so a calm environment and patient approach are important.

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