Pheasants

There are 49 different species of pheasant, 48 of which come from Asia. They are divided into the high altitude species which are hardy, coming from mountain areas such as the Himalayas and in China, Japan & Taiwan, and low altidude species which may need some heat & protection in cold winters. These come mainly from Malasia, the Phillipines & Indonesia.

The range is considerable from tragopans & monals that live as high as 14 000 feet down to others that live at sea level. Domestic poultry are all derived from a pheasant - the Red Jungle Fowl.

More than a third of pheasant species are on the endangered list in their original habitat. Pheasants are mostly forest dwellers and the destruction of forest for agriculture is a consequence of human expansion in Asia. There are many more endangered species bred and alive in captivity than are taken from the wild.

To keep pheasants, the cost of setting up an aviary must be borne in mind. It is suggested that a pair need about 200 sq ft (18.5 sq m) though some need more and a few less. Any beginner should do their research first and seek the advice of experienced keepers.

This page will develop in time to give more information, but for now there are some pictures of several of the breeds available from us. Click on a picture to see a larger version. For a complete list, see our prices page.

For further information, ring Mervyn Anstey - 01363 774721 or mobiles 07967 244659 or 07793 820864.