Latin name - Phasianus colchicus

Originally from Asia the Common Pheasant was introduced into the United Kingdom a long time ago, originally thought to be by the Normans, most authorities now think it was introduced even earlier by the Romans. The males have a dark green head, a red face and chestnut, golden-brown and black markings. Females are much duller, mottled with pale brown and dark brown markings. Young pheasants look similar to the females but have shorter tails. A game bird, bred extensively for shooting, today's pheasants are often a combination of many different imported strains. Usually seen foraging for food in open fields near woodland or other dense cover.