The Silver Pheasant

The Silver Pheasant is a species of pheasant that can be found mainly in the mountains of mainland Southeast Asia, as well as in the southern and eastern part of China. In addition, some populations have been introduced in Hawaii and other areas in the United States. The male features a black and white color pattern while the female is mostly brown. Both of the sexes have red legs and a red face. The legs separate it from the Kalij Pheasant which has grayish legs.

Just like other pheasants, the silver pheasant (Lophura nycthemera) was introduced in the genus Phasianus in 1758 when it was described by Linnaeus. This type of pheasant is related closely to the aforementioned Kalij Pheasant and the two of them are known to hybridize. The silver pheasant has 15 subspecies and most of them are relatively distinctive, although there are some that are likely part of a cline.

It is a rather large type of pheasant and the males belonging to the largest subspecies have a total length of at least 47 to 49 inches (120 to 125 cm), with a tail that can measure even 30 inches (75 cm). On the opposite side, the smallest of the subspecies rarely reach 28 inches (70 cm), with a tail of up to 12 inches (30 cm). The silver pheasant females are smaller in comparison to the males, the largest one being able to reach approximately 28 inches (70 cm).

The males belonging to the northern species, which are the largest among other species, feature white upperparts and tail, while their underparts and the crest are glossy bluish-black. The southern species male has greyer upperparts and a tail that features extensive black markings. Females are brown and have a shorter tail while some of the subspecies have whitish underparts with black patterns.

The silver pheasant feathers are being used for creating decorations for tables, vases, walls and others. The male feathers are white on the upper half and tail, while its bottom half is blueish-black.

The elongated feathers extend to the rear neck. The female's feathers are broadly edged creamy-white.

The silver pheasant eats plant matter like fruits and seeds. In search for food, it will scratch the ground with the feet and from time to time it will dig with the bill. According to the season, it will also eat invertebrates. They usually eat in the morning hours of the day as well as in the evening.

It is a terrestrial bird that does not fly often, but if disturbed will take off in order to reach a covered area.

The breeding season varies according to the range. They nest on the ground and the clutch contains 6 up to 9 eggs. The species is known to breed in small groups and the silver pheasant chicks will hatch during the wet season of the year. Incubation lasts in captivity approximately 25-26 days. The parents only guide them in searching the food sources and protect them from potential predators.

Silver Pheasant Videos

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