Lophura swinhoii
The Swinhoe's Pheasant, Lophura swinhoii, is a spectacular gamebird endemic to the mountainous forests of Taiwan, highly prized for its striking plumage and elusive nature. Males are instantly recognizable with their iridescent blue-black bodies, a prominent white crest, a patch of white on the upper mantle, and vivid red facial wattles. They boast long, arched dark blue tails, often reaching up to 50 cm in length, contrasting sharply with their bright red legs, giving them an overall length ...
Found in subtropical broadleaf and mixed primary forests, often near streams or clearings, at elevations typically between 500 and 2,000 meters in its native Taiwan.
Omnivorous, primarily consuming a wide range of invertebrates such as earthworms and insects, alongside various plant matter including seeds, berries, shoots, leaves, and fungi. Forages by scratching the forest floor.
Swinhoe's Pheasants are primarily diurnal, spending their days foraging on the forest floor and roosting in trees at night for safety. They forage by vigorously scratching through leaf litter with their strong feet, uncovering hidden food items. During the breeding season, males establish territo...
The Swinhoe's Pheasant is strictly endemic to the island of Taiwan, found exclusively within its Central Mountain Range. Its distribution spans various national parks and protected areas, including Yushan National Park and Shei-Pa National Park, where intact forest ecosystems provide suitable hab...
Least Concern
- The Swinhoe's Pheasant is named after Robert Swinhoe, a British naturalist who first described the species in 1862. - It is considered one of Taiwan's national birds and a significant symbol of the island's unique biodiversity. - During courtship, the male's dazzling white upper mantle feathers...