Posted by Garry Revesz on June 10, 2013 at 9:52 PM
I was in a Wildness area several weeks ago and no more than a 150 feet from me, this bird came out of the trees, landed on the ground, and walked around feeding on seeds on the ground, which makes sense when you see the shape of its beak. However, I have gone through my copy of the National Geographic Complete Birds of N.A., and several bottles of wine, and cannot find this guy in the guide. I have lots of pictures of this guy, and I thought at first it might be of the pheasant family, but nothing comes close, he even seems to have some 'dreadlocks', but I don't think he's from Jamaica. Any help to point me in the right direction, or at least the species, would be very much appreciated.
Looks like a female or juvie Golden Pheasant. Indigenous in China, but kept in many zoos and aviaries in the US. This is likely an escapee. What part of the country are you in?
Sandy
Posted by John Tobias on June 11, 2013 at 10:04 AM
I agree with Sandy, golden pheasant. There have been attempts to stock these and other species of pheasants, but I think only the ringneck pheasant was a success. Interesting to see one in the wild.
Posted by Garry Revesz on June 11, 2013 at 10:35 AM
Sandy and John, it struck me as being an unusual bird for our area, which is about an hour north of Toronto, Canada. I'm going back there later this week and see if can spot it again. I used my car as a blind but noticed it was not relaxed so didn't dare try get closer. Thanks to both of you for the I.D. which I can research further. No wonder the North American Bird Guide didn't help.
Discussion
3 repliesGarry Revesz
Sandy
Garry Revesz
Toronto, Canada