Country Lane - Pheasant

There is magic in an early spring evening. The new grass of the year is emerald bright, but the leaves have yet to come into leaf. The twigs are taking on a subtle warmth of color, and here and there the first blossoms have appeared.

The country lane, as old as man's intrusion into the forest, creates an opening which brings a variety of habitat and an enrichment of species. For centuries cart and horse have been man's chief means of transporting goods across the countryside. Countless plodding hoofs have worn a path between the wheel ruts. Now the wagon is retired and modern rubber treads mark the route.

This is ideal country for the ring-necked pheasant. Originally an Asian bird, it is now found throughout Britain, Europe and North America, where woodland and farm provide cover and food.