Pheasants – Family Overview

Pheasants are medium to large-sized ground-dwelling birds belonging to the family Phasianidae, which also includes junglefowl, partridges, quails, and peafowl. They are well known for their strong legs, rounded wings, and often striking sexual dimorphism.

Pheasants are primarily terrestrial birds, typically found in forests, woodland edges, grasslands, scrub, and agricultural landscapes. Many species prefer areas with dense cover interspersed with open ground for feeding.

These birds feed mainly on seeds, grains, shoots, insects, and other invertebrates. Foraging usually takes place on the ground, where pheasants scratch and peck through leaf litter and soil.

Most pheasants are strong runners but relatively short-distance fliers, taking to the air mainly when startled. Many species have elaborate courtship displays, and males are often more brightly coloured than females.

The family has a wide distribution across Asia, Europe, Africa, and North America. In India, pheasants include both wild junglefowl and high-altitude forest species, with the Grey Junglefowl being a characteristic and widespread representative.

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Licensing & Prints

Selected photographs from this bird family are available for licensing and fine-art prints. You can explore curated images in the Pheasants collection on BirdsPhotos Shop.