Lady Amherst’s Pheasant
Chrysolophus amherstiae
Lady Amherst's Pheasant is a rare and introduced species in Britain, occasionally seen in woodland areas with dense undergrowth, particularly in the southern counties. Sightings are often reported in the spring and summer months when the birds are most active.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Lady Amherst’s Pheasant in the field.
The species can be identified by its distinctive white throat patch, coppery-brown plumage, and long, barred tail feathers. The male's golden crest and red facial wattles are also key distinguishing features.
Lady Amherst's Pheasant is larger than a Grey Partridge, with males reaching a length of approximately 100-120 cm.
The male has a striking plumage, with a golden crest on top of the head, a white throat patch, and a coppery-brown body with intricate black and white markings on the breast and belly.
The female has a more subdued plumage, with a brown back, white throat patch, and a barred tail, similar to the male but lacking the golden crest and red facial wattles.
The call of the Lady Amherst's Pheasant is a loud, shrill "kek-kek-kek" or a sharp "chik-chik-chik", often heard in the early morning or late evening.
The species is ground-dwelling, feeding on seeds, fruits, and insects, and has a distinctive running gait when alarmed, with a swift and agile flight when necessary.
Lady Amherst's Pheasant can be confused with the Golden Pheasant, but can be distinguished by its white throat patch, coppery-brown plumage, and longer, barred tail feathers.
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