Grey Peacock Pheasant

(Polyplectron bicalcaratum)

The grey peacock pheasant (they get their name because of the "eyes" or ocelli on their plumage) is the smallest of our birds.

They start to breed in late March. They only have two eggs in a clutch but will lay a few clutches in the season. 

They need a heated shelter for the worst of our winter weather. We only use 120 watt tubular heaters. These give enough heat to keep the shelters frost free and are very inexpensive to run.

The peacock pheasants are the most insectivorous of the pheasants enjoying all kinds of live food which they have on a daily basis. We have also been feeding them partridge food which is slightly higher in protein than our pheasant pellets and they are thriving. Our peacock pheasants also have a good helping of fruit and vegetables with some grain and like all our birds they appreciate a few peanuts added to the ration. We include plants in their aviaries which for at least part of the year encourage many insects into the lair. Some of the plants we use are: fennel, egg plant, nasturtium, clover, buddleia and many others especially native ones including weeds.

We have never had any problems pairing these birds as they are very docile and will always accept whatever partner they are given. They are lovely little birds which are not as delicate as they look.

They become quite tame eating from your hand.

The cock puts on a wonderful display for his partner showing of all his beautiful plumage. He spreads his wings and tail to their fullest behind him and leans forward with his crown feathers facing forward over his beak. I'm sure these birds would be a joy for any animal lover to keep.

Allandoo Pheasantry

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