How to Raise a Reeves's Pheasant

Although not nearly so artificially abundant as the common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), which is raised in its millions across Europe and North America, the Reeves̵7;s pheasant (Syrmaticus reevesii) isn̵7;t especially demanding or hard to acquire. Raising this species is not exactly the same as raising common pheasants, but it has similar requirements.

  1. Background

    • Native to China, Reeves̵7;s pheasants are struggling in the wild, where numbers are declining rapidly due to habitat destruction and fragmentation. Hunting and egg collection are also threats̵2;the species used to be targeted for its extremely long tail feathers. Pheasant enthusiasts have raised the species in captivity for a while, although it is probably not a good choice for beginners because of space requirements. Males also tend toward the aggressive.

    Housing

    • These pheasants require a fair amount of space, with basic housing consisting of a substantial outdoor aviary, sufficiently covered to provide protection from the elements. A thick layer of shrubby vegetation provides a more natural environment and makes the birds feel secure. Take care that the floor doesn̵7;t become too muddy, which would ruin the long tail feathers. Because both adults and chicks can be aggressive, Reeves̵7;s pheasants should not be kept with other species of pheasant or indeed any other birds. For the same reason, ensure you have only one male per aviary.

    Diet

    • Reeves̵7;s pheasants don̵7;t have highly specific dietary requirements. Chicks should get a high-protein pheasant starter food while adults should be fine with a commercial pheasant food as the staple diet. Supplement with mealworms, worms and other invertebrates and some fresh produce. Your birds will also find a little bit of food in their enclosure, although probably not very much.

    Care

    • Handle the birds daily from a young age if you want relatively tame birds, although bear in mind that Reeves̵7;s pheasants, especially the males, have a reputation for being aggressive to everybody̵2;each other, other birds and humans. This is not a species to rear if you have your heart set on pet-like tame birds. Basic maintenance is straightforward. Aside from feeding and changing the water every day, remove droppings and uneaten scraps and treat parasites per your vet̵7;s advice when required.