Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Lady Amherst's Pheasant

Scientific name: Chrysolophus amherstiae


Lady Amherst's Pheasant

IUCN Status:

Family: PHASIANIDAE

Group: Birds

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 10 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.04–30.06

Gestation / Incubation: 22–24 jours

Births: 01.05–15.07


Habitat:
Dense forests, undergrowth, mountains

Description:
The Lady Amherst's Pheasant is a striking bird known for its vibrant plumage and long tail feathers. Native to the mountainous forests of China and Myanmar, it was introduced to Europe in the 19th century. The male boasts colorful plumage with intricate patterns of green, red, blue, and white, while the female is more subdued with brown tones. These birds prefer dense forest habitats where they feed on seeds, fruits, and insects. Although primarily terrestrial, they can fly short distances to evade predators. Their behavior is generally suspicious, making them challenging to observe in the wild.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the Lady Amherst's Pheasant, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images without disturbing the bird. Look for areas with dense vegetation, as these birds prefer undergrowth. Be patient and discreet, as their suspicious behavior makes them difficult to approach. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and wait for the right moment to capture their vibrant plumage under soft natural light.

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