A Spring Visitor

A few days ago, a familiar visitor strode past our window, his vibrant plumage a stark contrast to the dormant fields surrounding our rural home. We've heard his distinctive call echoing from afar, but this was our first close up glimpse of the magnificent male ring-necked pheasant. His call is unmistakable—a sharp, explosive “kerr-awk” with a guttural, metallic edge that resonates for half a mile in open terrain. It's like a barnyard rooster on steroids, wild and full of character. This raspy proclamation serves to defend his territory and attract potential mates. If all goes well, the male and his harem of hens will raise the next generation of these captivating birds in our field. However, the ring-necked pheasant is not native to these lands. Originating in Asia, these birds were introduced to the Maritime region in the early 1900s, on the traditional lands of the Mi'kmaq, the original inhabitants of this area. Since the 1920s, there have been enough pheasants to establish a hunting season that continues to this day. While I can't imagine killing such a beautiful creature, it is nice to know they are here, especially in potential times of need. But the vegetarian in me would be delighted to see a brood of chicks scampering about our field in the near future. If I were their parent, I would warn them of the predators that frequent the field that might also be hungry: coyotes, owls, foxes, hawks, eagles, ravens, crows, and the odd domestic cat. With a bit of luck and keen awareness, some of the little ones will grow up big and strong and life will go on. Who are the spring visitors in your area? We'd love to hear about the nature near you.