(Part of the) common name for many species of the family Phasianidae (Galliformes, suborder Galli), used in the plural as a general term for the family and in Britain used without a qualification for Phasianus colchicus. They are terrestrial birds which as a rule feed and nest on the ground, but in general roost on trees at night. The wings are short and rounded which, together with their relatively heavy weight, allow them to make only short, fast, but powerful flights. The bill is short and thick, the upper mandible overhanging the lower, and serves as a digging tool to dig for roots and worms, which complete the main diet of seeds, berries and leaves.

Alternative forms for pheasants : Phasianus, pheasant.