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A Complete Guide to Rearing & Feeding Pheasants
Pheasants are a classic sight in the British countryside, kept both for sporting purposes and by smallholders who enjoy their striking appearance. Whether you’re raising a few birds for a smallholding or managing a larger shoot, providing the right nutrition at each life stage is essential for healthy, robust birds and successful rearing.
Key Nutritional Needs
Pheasants have specific dietary requirements that change as they grow. Chicks need high levels of protein for rapid development, while adults benefit from feeds that support plumage, health, and—if breeding—egg production. Access to fresh water and grit is also important for digestion and overall wellbeing.
Types of Feed by Life Stage
Starter Crumb (0–5 weeks):
- Fine, high-protein crumb (26–28% protein) designed for easy consumption by chicks.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals for strong early growth and immunity.
Grower Pellets (5–12 weeks):
- Slightly larger pellet, lower in protein (20–22%) but still nutrient-dense.
- Supports steady growth, muscle, and feather development.
Maintenance/Breeder Pellets (12+ weeks):
- For mature birds, choose a maintenance pellet for general health, or a breeder pellet if hens are laying.
- Protein content around 14–16% for maintenance; breeder pellets include extra calcium and nutrients for egg production.
Grit & Supplements:
- Offer insoluble grit to aid digestion, especially if birds are not fully free-range.
- Vitamin and mineral supplements can help during periods of stress or poor weather.
How to Feed
- Frequency: Feed chicks little and often—at least 3–4 times daily for the first few weeks. Older birds can be fed twice daily.
- Quantity: Follow manufacturer guidelines, adjusting for bird size and activity.
- Water: Provide constant access to clean, fresh water—change daily and check for contamination.
- Feeding Equipment: Use shallow trays for chicks and hopper feeders for older birds. Raise feeders to keep feed clean.
Housing & General Care
- Space: Pheasants need plenty of room to prevent stress and feather pecking. Overcrowding can lead to health issues.
- Shelter: Provide safe, dry housing with good ventilation and protection from predators. Outdoor runs should have netting overhead.
- Enrichment: Scatter a little feed to encourage natural foraging behaviour.
Health & Biosecurity
- Cleanliness: Keep feeders, drinkers, and housing clean to reduce disease risk.
- Worming & Parasites: Regular health checks and worming are recommended, especially for birds on the ground.
- Biosecurity: Minimise contact with wild birds and rodents to prevent disease transmission.
Common Feeding Mistakes & FAQs
- Mistake: Feeding adult layers feed to chicks (protein too low for growth).
- Mistake: Not providing grit if birds are on pelleted or mixed diets.
- Mistake: Overfeeding treats or scraps—stick to balanced rations.
FAQs:
-
Can I feed pheasants chicken feed?
Not recommended—pheasants need higher protein, especially as chicks. -
Do pheasants need grit?
Yes, especially if not free-ranging. -
How long should they be on starter crumb?
Usually up to 5 weeks; then transition gradually to grower pellets.
Product Recommendations & Internal Links
Explore our full range of pheasant feeds, suitable for every life stage. We stock starter crumbs, grower pellets, breeder feeds, grit, and all the essentials to help your birds thrive.