Field Marks: 33 in. A large, introduced game bird, widespread in grassy and brushy areas and woodland edges. Usually seen walking on ground, where it feeds primarily on grains, seeds and berries. When flushed, flies up with a loud whir of wings. Sociable; single males often accompanied by several females. Males unmistakable, with long, pointed tail; dark, glossy head with bare red facial patches; iridescent, multicolored body appears reddish-brown from a distance; usually has a partial white neck ring. Females smaller and duller; primarily buff, mottled with brown and black; tail long and pointed but shorter than male's. Both sexes have chickenlike bill; short, rounded wings. Immatures resemble adult females. Explosive, hoarse "caaw-cak", lasting about one second.
Range: Resident in agricultural lands from Alberta, Washington, and n. California to New England. Local elsewhere.