An experimental introduction of the Japanese green pheasant (Phasianus Versicolor Robustipes Delacour) into Prince Edward Island

Japanese green pheasants (Phasianus versicolor robust- ipes Delacour) were introduced into the Glenfinnan area of Prince Edward Island in the fall of 1970. Release stock originated from hatching eggs imported via air from Virginia and New York States in 1969 and 1970, respectively. Attempts to hold Japanese green pheasants over-winter in 1969 for breeding purposes were unsuccessful; only three birds (10%) were successfully over-wintered. In 1970, 38 day-old chicks (57.6%) were reared to release. Chicks were reared by the "open field method" employing bantam hens. Bacterial infections and escapes during rearing were responsible for the loss of 16.7 and 19.7 percent of chicks, respectively. Japanese green pheasants were released "gently" into the Glenfinnan area as thirteen to sixteen-week-old birds. Released birds showed a strong affinity to the area of release until mid-December. The maximum distance Japanese green pheasants were observed from the release site was 7,600 feet. Sightings of released birds remained high until early December, 1970, when snowfall limited ground cover and familar food supplies. Observed losses of released birds after early December were high (28.9%), with predation by the eastern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis atricapillus L.) being the principle cause. Japanese green pheasants were not observed after February 19, 1971. Released birds were considered unsuccessful in surviving the winter of 1970-71, Climographic comparisons would suggest that the Japanese green pheasant is unsuited to the climatic conditions of Prince Edward Island.