The white eared pheasant, also known as Dolan's eared pheasant or Bee's pheasant, is a species of "eared pheasant" that get its name because its colouration is white and has the prominent ear tufts of the genus, not because it has white ears. The indigenous people of Himalaya call it shagga, meaning snow fowl. This gregarious bird lives in large flocks, foraging on alpine meadows close to or above the snowline throughout the year. C. crossoptilon is found in China where it tends to inhabit mixed forests and can be found around Buddhist monasteries.
Region
Eastern Tibetan Plateau and adjacent ranges
Typical Environment
Occurs in high montane zones of western China, especially in Sichuan, Qinghai, Gansu, Tibet (Xizang), and northern Yunnan. It favors alpine meadows, rhododendron and juniper scrub, and the edges of conifer–broadleaf forests near the treeline. In winter it descends slightly or forages on wind-scoured slopes, often near human settlements and monasteries. The species is largely sedentary within a rugged, high-elevation landscape.
Altitude Range
2800–4500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Despite the name, its 'ears' are elongated white feather tufts, not actual ears. Highly gregarious, it often forms large flocks and is known to forage above the snowline, scratching through snow to reach roots and tubers. In parts of western China it frequents Buddhist monasteries, where it may be tolerated and occasionally provisioned. Strong legs and short wings make it a capable runner that typically avoids long flights.
Temperament
social and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with downhill glides; prefers running to prolonged flight
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it forms cohesive flocks that forage and roost together. Pairs form in spring; nesting is on the ground in concealed sites, with the female incubating. Family groups may remain associated into autumn, merging into larger winter flocks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, resonant honks and barking calls that carry across valleys, especially at dawn. During displays, males give repeated hoots and clucks accompanied by tail fanning and head bobbing.
