Originally from China, the ring-neck or Oregon pheasant was introduced to North America and Europe in the late 1800's as a game bird. It thrives in small groves with underbrush and in pockets of grass among trees and shrubs. Among its relatives are the partridge and even more colorful peacock. Here, a male pheasant's bright, colorful feathers create a beautiful accent against the more subtle, neutral colors of winter. - SL