Pheasant

Pheasants ( FEZ-ənts) are birds of several genera within the family Phasianidae in the order Galliformes. Although they can be found all over the world in introduced (and captive) populations, the pheasant genera's native range is restricted to Eurasia. The classification "pheasant" is paraphyletic, as birds referred to as pheasants are included within both the subfamilies Phasianinae and Pavoninae, and in many cases are more closely related to smaller phasianids, grouse, and turkey (formerly classified in Perdicinae, Tetraoninae, and Meleagridinae) than to other pheasants. Pheasants eat mostly seeds, grains, roots, and berries, while in the summer they take advantage of insects, fresh green shoots, spiders, earthworms, and snails. However, as an introduced species, in the UK they have been reported as a potential threat to endangered native adders. The best-known is the common pheasant, which is widespread throughout the world, in introduced feral populations and in farm operations. They are the most popular game bird in many parts of the United States. Various other pheasant species are popular in aviaries, such as the golden pheasant (Chrysolophus pictus).