The Golden Pheasant, scientifically known as Chrysolophus pictus or Chinese pheasant, is a striking bird belonging to the order Galliformes and family Phasianidae. Its genus name, derived from Ancient Greek, signifies its defining feature: a splendid golden crest. “Pictus,” Latin for “painted,” aptly describes its vibrant appearance.
Measuring about 100 cm in length, with its impressive tail constituting two-thirds of its size, and weighing between 500 to 700 grams, the adult male Golden Pheasant is a spectacle of color. Its head sports a crest of yellow fibrous feathers, while just below, the neck displays black-barred and black-tipped orange plumes known as tippets. The upper saddle boasts green tippets similarly patterned with black bars, while the lower saddle features yellow feathers akin to those on its red chest. The sides and wings are adorned in royal blue with speckled brown quills, and the tail base showcases long, pointed red spears. The tail itself gleams in a light golden tan with irregular dark brown markings.
In addition to its resplendent plumage, the male’s physical features include a bright red body, an orange ruff or “cape” on the neck that can be spread in display, and a striking facial fan of alternating black and orange feathers that covers all but its bright yellow eyes with pinpoint black pupils. The face, throat, chin, and sides of the neck are adorned in rusty tan hues, complemented by yellow wattles and orbital skin. The upper back is a lush green, transitioning to a golden-yellow along the rest of the back and rump. Its wings are distinguished by blue tertiary feathers and dark red scapulars, while its central tail feathers are cinnamon-spotted with a buff tip. The upper tail coverts mirror the central tail feathers in color. Its chest is scarlet, and its flanks and underparts showcase scarlet and light chestnut hues. Its lower legs and feet are a muted yellow.
Conversely, the adult female Golden Pheasant, measuring between 60 to 80 cm in length and weighing approximately 350 grams, is less ostentatious. Resembling the female common pheasant but darker and more slender, she dons a mottled brown plumage. Her breast and sides are barred in buff and blackish brown, while her abdomen remains plain buff. A buff face and throat further distinguish her subdued appearance. Some atypical females may acquire male plumage later in life. Both genders share yellow legs and bills.
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