The blue-eared pheasant is a large pheasant endemic to China. Although rare, it is regarded as the least concerning species on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It is a large gray terrestrial bird with an elegantly frilly tail. Its bright red face and upswept white facial plumes (“ears”) are unique in its range—this one at Sylvan Heights Bird Park.
Blue-eared Pheasant
The golden pheasant, also known as the Chinese pheasant, and the colorful rainbow pheasant is at Sylvan Heights Bird Park. In Chinese culture, the golden pheasant is considered the ancestor of the phoenix and represents auspiciousness. In the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), the robes of high-ranked bureaucrats were emblazoned with images of the golden pheasant as a symbol of their power and authority.
Golden Pheasant
Golden Pheasant Closeup