Melanistic Mutant Pheasant

This melanistic mutant is a pure breed. These large, beautiful pheasants feature an iridescent, greenish-black plumage. A favorite variety for release, they display a remarkable ability to survive and reproduce in the wild. Prime habitat consists of 55-70% crop fields such as corn, soybean, or small grains. The remainder of the habitat should include some wetlands, grassland, and woodland or brushy thickets.

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FAQs About Melanistic Mutants

No. Melanistic mutant pheasants are not a separate species. They are a color mutation of the ringneck pheasant (Phasianus colchicus).

Aside from their darker plumage, they share the same general behaviors, growth rate, care requirements, and habitat preferences as traditional ringneck pheasants. See our complete taxonomy guide for more detail.

Yes! MacFarlane Pheasants offers melanistic mutant pheasants at multiple stages of development to fit your needs.

Depending on availability, you can purchase:

Whether you’re starting a breeding program, expanding your flock, or stocking a hunting preserve, we offer options to help you reach your goals.

Melanistic mutant pheasants typically reach full maturity in 16 to 20 weeks, just like other ringneck pheasant varieties.

During that time, they develop their distinctive dark plumage while growing into healthy, fully feathered birds suitable for breeding, hunting preserves, or display.

Yes. Melanistic mutant pheasants can be an excellent addition to hunting preserves. They offer the same strong flight and athletic ability expected of quality ringneck pheasants while adding a unique visual element that many hunters enjoy.

Many preserve owners also use them to create a more diverse hunting experience for returning customers.

When raised with quality genetics and proper conditioning, melanistic mutant pheasants develop strong flight abilities similar to traditional ringneck pheasants.

At MacFarlane Pheasants, our focus is on raising healthy, vigorous birds with excellent flight characteristics, regardless of feather color.

Both male and female melanistic mutant pheasants display darker plumage than traditional ringneck pheasants, although roosters are typically larger and have more pronounced iridescent coloring.

Roosters often feature:

  • Glossy black and dark green feathers
  • Long tail feathers
  • Metallic sheen in sunlight

Hens generally have:

  • Dark brown to charcoal plumage
  • More subtle feather patterns
  • Excellent camouflage compared to brighter birds

Contact us for more details or with any questions.

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