With its exotic plumage, and long streamer tail, there is no denying the aesthetic appeal of the Common Pheasant. It is also highly regarded on the table, so it is no surprise that humans should attempt to keep them closer to hand.

A native of Asia, the Common Pheasant was first introduced to British Columbia in 1882. There have been many introductions in various parts of the province, with birds coming from England and China.

Many of the introductions have failed, and today viable populations are found mainly in the Fraser Valley, southeastern Vancouver Island, the Okanagan Valley, and the Creston and Salmon Arm areas. In some cases, the populations are augmented on a regular basis.

These birds are sedentary, favouring a variety of open habitats. They do quite well in agricultural settings, but with development pressure on these habitats, pheasant populations are declining in many areas. Surveys continue to be done in the spring in some areas, to count the numbers of crowing males.

Pheasants construct nests on the ground, of grasses, twigs and rootlets. The nests sometimes have a domed appearance when tucked under vegetation. The female lays numerous eggs, with clutches of up to 28 eggs being reported; 9 to 12 seems to be about average. The eggs hatch after about 23 days, with the young out of the nest soon after.

In the spring, the males can be heard giving their kwuk-kwuk calls, as they attempt to attract as many mates as possible. At these times, the males are much more daring, as they strut about in their self-importance, and this is the best time to get a look at these beautiful immigrants. They may also be seen on the menus of many fine restaurants.