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Description of the species
The white eared pheasant (lat. Crossoptilon crossoptilon) is a ground-dwelling member of the pheasant family. Total length 86-96 cm. Plumage is almost entirely white; the breast, back and wings can be pale gray. A black cap tops the head, and the tail is dark gray-green that appears black from a distance. Legs are red-pink, and there is a conspicuous bare burgundy-red orbital patch. Juveniles are brownish gray and quickly molt into adult plumage. The call carries far and sounds like harsh, rasping creaks.
Range and habitat
Endemic to southwestern China: the eastern fringe of Tibet and adjoining ranges in northern Yunnan, western Sichuan and southeastern Qinghai. Occupies shrub belts near the upper limit of high-montane conifer and mixed forests, as well as subalpine birch and rhododendron thickets at roughly 3000-4300 m. Local occurrence is driven by water availability, feeding sites and predator pressure. Winter flocks can reach about 30 birds.
Estimated population size is about 10,000-50,000 birds, including roughly 6,700-33,000 mature individuals. Overall the species is scarce and patchy.
Diet
Feeds on the ground, pecking plant matter and digging up bulbs. The diet includes seeds, green plant parts, fruits, rhizomes and, seasonally, invertebrates.
Breeding
Monogamous during the breeding period. Nesting is timed to montane conditions; clutch size, incubation and chick rearing are adapted to the cool high-elevation climate.
Subspecies
- C. c. crossoptilon - nominotypical, southwestern China including southeastern Tibet
- C. c. dolani - southeastern Qinghai
- C. c. drouynii - eastern Tibet
- C. c. lichiangense - northern Yunnan and southwestern Sichuan
Conservation
Main threats are hunting and habitat loss. While high-montane forests in parts of its range are not undergoing rapid deforestation at present, tourism growth could intensify fragmentation. Listed in CITES Appendix I. Occurs in several protected areas and is traditionally respected and safeguarded around some Buddhist monasteries. Natural predators include crows and buzzards.
Buy a white eared pheasant: ordering and shipping
You can purchase white eared pheasants from our farm. Delivery across Ukraine. To check availability and delivery, contact us via Viber, Telegram, or by phone 050-182-27-27.
Common questions
How does the white eared pheasant differ from the blue eared pheasant
The white eared pheasant is predominantly white with a black cap and dark tail, while the blue eared pheasant shows dark gray to bluish-gray tones and a different wing and tail pattern.
Can it be housed with other pheasant species
Separate sections with visual barriers are recommended, especially during the breeding season, to avoid conflict and stress.
What aviary conditions are ideal
A dry, spacious aviary with shelter, shade and good ventilation; constant access to water and mineral supplements. Provide extra shade in hot weather and protection from damp and wind in winter.