How to Tell a Pheasant's Sex

Pheasants are a game bird present in most of North America. They are a popular game bird in the United States and are not currently an endangered species. They dwell at ground level but are able to fly when startled. Hunters and nature lovers can distinguish gender based on a series of characteristics. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Check plumage (feathers) around the barrel and chest area of the bird. A male's plumage is likely to be a copper or golden color. A female's plumage is a dappled brown with gray undertones. This is the easiest way to determine sex, as the difference is quite striking.

2. Observe other colors and markings present. The male exhibits green, purple and white markings around the head, neck and tail area. He will have a green head with red eye markings. He may also exhibit a white ring or collar around his neck. The female has no other color or markings and is uniformly brown or gray.

3. Do a size comparison if you are presented with a pair. The male can be 3 to 6 inches taller than the female. His tail feathers will stretch out longer than hers.

4. Note behavioral characteristics. A male cock often nests with a harem of 2 to 4 females. In addition, females stay near the nest (on the ground), while the male is more likely to wander. In addition, chicks stay exclusively with the female.

Tips & Warnings

• Baby pheasants don't exhibit color changes until close to 15 weeks of age.