Melanistic (Black) Mutant
A variant of Ring-necked pheasant (Phasianus colchicus)
A dark iridescent green-black strain (the melanistic mutant pheasant) selectively bred for ornamental keeping and release; hardy, productive, and one of the most widely raised game strains.
Keeper tips for this variant
No health caveat to the color itself, but melanistic hens are often better natural sitters than other strains — give them a quiet, well-hidden nest box if you want broody hens rather than incubating.