The blue eared pheasant is a large pheasant endemic to China. Although it is considered rare, the blue eared pheasant is evaluated as of least concern
Region
North-central China
Typical Environment
Occupies montane coniferous and mixed forests, rhododendron thickets, and shrubby slopes near the upper treeline. It uses forest edges and alpine meadows for foraging and retreats to dense cover for roosting and nesting. In winter it may descend to lower valleys and the fringes of farmland to exploit available food. Steep slopes with juniper, spruce, and dense understorey are typical microhabitats.
Altitude Range
1800–3600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
The blue eared pheasant is a robust, high-altitude pheasant endemic to China, noted for its long white ear-like plumes. Despite being locally uncommon, it is assessed as Least Concern due to a relatively wide range and stable numbers. It is hardy in cold climates and often forms noisy winter flocks. Outside the breeding season it performs short downhill flights but relies heavily on running over steep ground.
Colour plate from 1918 of the blue eared pheasant
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; prefers running over flying
Social Behavior
Forms small flocks outside the breeding season and roosts communally on trees or rocky ledges. During breeding, pairs or small groups nest on the ground under dense cover, with a clutch typically placed in a shallow scrape lined with vegetation. Adults are vigilant and will lead chicks through thick cover while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, far-carrying hoots and trumpeting calls, often delivered at dawn and dusk. Alarm notes are harsh croaks and clucks given when flushed or disturbed.
Plumage
Overall slate-blue to gray-blue body with soft, dense plumage; tail long and broad with pale tips; contrasting white, elongated ear coverts droop along the neck.
Diet
Feeds on roots, tubers, bulbs, shoots, seeds, berries, and pine nuts, supplemented by insects and other invertebrates. It uses powerful legs to scratch through leaf litter and dig in soil or snow. In winter it will exploit agricultural edges and disturbed areas where food is more accessible.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the forest floor, open glades, and shrub-choked slopes near treeline. Frequently works along edges of conifer stands, rhododendron thickets, and meadow margins.
