Reeves Pheasants are large, hardy ornamental pheasants native to China. Males are known for their striking white head, black facial mask, golden-yellow body with dark scaling, chestnut belly, and exceptionally long barred tail. Females are more muted, with light brown, buff, and tan markings and a long barred tail.

These birds do best in spacious, well-structured aviaries with plenty of ground room, cover, and protection for the male’s long tail. They are very hardy and adaptable, but males are known for being aggressive, both to other birds and and people, especially during breeding season, so they should not be kept in mixed aviaries or crowded setups.

Reeves Pheasants are first-year birds, meaning hens can begin laying the spring after hatch, and males are typically fertile in their first year. Hens typically start laying around mid-April and lay every second day until roughly 30 eggs are produced. Eggs are small, round, and olive-tan.

It is recommended to keep Reeves in pairs or trios, with only one male per pen. Especially during the breeding season, if there is more than one male in an enclosure, they will fight each other to the death. Keeping Reeves’ with other birds or animals is also not a good idea, as they will kill or injure anything else in their enclosure.

It is important to note that these are widely considered the most aggressive species of pheasant, and best suited to experienced keepers. During the breeding season, males will attack anyone they view as a threat, and can be dangerous with their large spurs.

Only juvenile pairs are offered, typically from the current season. Availability is limited.

These birds are not pinioned, and can fly.

Information
Weight: 0.9–1.5 kg
Eggs per year: 20-40
APA Class: N/A
Foraging ability: Good; active ground foragers that benefit from cover, greens, grains, and varied browse
Temperament: Hardy and active; males can be aggressive, especially during breeding season
Broodiness: Low to moderate, some hens may sit.
Climate preference: Very hardy and adaptable; shelter from wind, wet conditions, and direct snow recommended

OUT OF STOCK UNTIL FALL 2026

Pricing
Juvenile Pairs (Contact for availability): $150