Golden Pheasant
Chrysolophus pictus
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Distribution Britain 47 (+80.8%) Ireland 0
Numbers breeding: Britain 750 Ireland 0 European status: 750 (100% in Britain and Ireland =1) British population trend: slowly dwindling How likely are you to record it? 5 squares (0.1%) Ranked 162= |
This splendid but secretive bird was introduced from China over 100 years ago to Dumfries and Norfolk and later Sussex, Hampshire, Mull, Anglesey and elsewhere. Useless as a gamebird, it is established in several places but has suffered declines in recent years — even in its Breckland stronghold. Cause for concern: if one should be concerned about an exotic species.
Ogilvie, M.A. & RBBP 1999 British Birds: 92, 176-182 & 472-476.
From
The
State of the Nations Birds
Copyright © 2000 by Chris Mead