Ring-Necked Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus)
Introduced in the 1800's, the pheasant is now common in open woods and on farmland in brush, hedgerows, and cornfields throughout North America. Pheasants are much larger than other gallinaceous birds except for the turkey. Both sexes have long pointed tails and short rounded wings. Plumage is variable, depending on the origin of the released stock. Flight is strong, but only for short distances. Pheasants feed mostly on waste grains, seeds, and berries. The loud, 2-syllable call is followed by a muffled, rapid beating of wings.