The ring-necked pheasant is native to Asia, where it has long been celebrated for its beauty and adaptability. It was first introduced to the United States in the late 19th century, with early populations established in Oregon. By the early 20th century, the bird had been released in various parts of the country, including Wisconsin, as part of efforts to bolster game bird populations for hunting. Pheasants are ground-dwelling birds that thrive in open landscapes. In Wisconsin, the pheasant found a home in the state’s southern and central regions, where the mix of farmland, grasslands, and wetlands provided ideal habitat. Over time, populations expanded northward, reaching parts like Crandon and other parts of Northern Wisconsin. However, the bird’s success in the north has been more limited due to harsher winters and less favorable habitat to the southern part of the state. Some key features of their habitat in Northern Wisconsin include grasslands and conservation reserve program (CRP) fields which are set aside to promote wildlife habitat. These areas provide nesting cover and protection from predators. Another key habitat is corn and grain fields. Pheasants rely heavily on agricultural crops for food, particularly in the fall and winter when natural food sources are scarce. The last key habitat is wetlands and brushy areas, this provides additional cover and protection, especially during the harsh winters of Northern Wisconsin. Despite their adaptability, pheasants in the north face challenges. Deep snow and prolonged cold can make survival difficult, as the birds struggle to find food and shelter. This is why pheasant populations in Northern Wisconsin are often supplemented by state-run stocking programs, which release birds into the wild to maintain hunting opportunities and ecological balance. Beyond hunting, the pheasant is a favorite among birdwatchers and photographers. The male’s striking plumage marked by a shimmering green head, white neck ring, and coppery body makes it a standout in any landscape. Their distinctive crowing call, often heard at dawn, adds a touch of wild beauty to the northern countryside.
Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land Conservation and Land Information Department. For more information contact Lucas O’Brien, Forest County Land Conservation Technician at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at