The Lady Amherst’s Pheasant (Chrysolophus amherstiae) is native to southwestern China and northern Myanmar, but it also became established in parts of England after being introduced in the 19th century. The species was named in honor of Sarah Amherst, wife of the British governor of Bengal, who first obtained specimens for science.

One of the most remarkable facts is its extremely long tail, which can reach more than 80 centimeters — making up over half the bird’s total body length. Males use this extravagant tail in elaborate courtship displays, spreading their cape-like neck feathers to impress females.

Although still common in parts of Asia, the species has nearly disappeared from England, where small feral populations once survived. Today, most sightings outside its native range come from aviaries and private collections.

Taxonomically, Lady Amherst’s Pheasant is closely related to the Golden Pheasant (Chrysolophus pictus), and the two can interbreed in captivity, producing hybrids that sometimes occur in the wild.