Common pheasant

Pheasants are terrestrial birds that spend most of their time on the ground in search of food. They are polygamous, and males fight to defend their territory and attract females. The females build their nests on the ground in a hollow camouflaged in vegetation, where they lay and hatch their eggs. In the Danube Delta, pheasants are generally sedentary, but may migrate locally depending on food availability and climatic conditions.

Phasianus colchicus

Description and how to observe Common pheasant:

The pheasant is a spectacular bird, particularly recognised for the brightly coloured plumage of the males. It has golden, green and purple plumage, with a long tail and bright neck feathers. The females, on the other hand, are more discreet, with brownish plumage, perfectly camouflaged in the vegetation.

To spot pheasants in the Danube Delta, it's best to move around reedbeds and woodland, especially in the morning or evening when they are most active. You can use binoculars to observe them from a distance without scaring them off.

What it feeds on Common pheasant:

Pheasants are omnivorous and have a varied diet that includes seeds, fruits, insects, worms and small vertebrates. In the Danube Delta, they feed on aquatic plant seeds, insects and molluscs.

Threats:

The main threats to pheasant populations in the Danube Delta are:

The hunt: Pheasant is a hunted species and poaching is a significant problem.
Habitat destruction: Agricultural expansion, wetland drainage and deforestation are reducing the amount of habitat available for pheasants.
Predators: Foxes, dogs and birds of prey can hunt pheasants, especially chicks and hatching females.

Ecological role:

Pheasants play an important role in the ecosystem, helping to disperse seeds and serving as prey for various predators.

More information about Phasianus colchicus:

Conservation: In order to protect pheasant populations, sustainable habitat management, the fight against poaching and the implementation of species-specific conservation measures are needed.
Observe pheasants: If you want to see pheasants in their natural habitat, it's a good idea to sign up for a tour organised by a travel agency specialising in birdwatching tourism.
Pheasant photography: Pheasants are popular photo subjects because of their brightly coloured plumage. To get quality photos, use a telephoto lens and approach the bird with caution.