Nesting Cover Nesting cover is the single most important factor that limits pheasant populations in suitable habitat. Pheasants need undisturbed habitats primarily of grass and herbaceous plants, with erect vegetation reaching eight to twelve inches in height. Early season nests utilize dead residual vegetation from the previous growing season. A shallow depression or pocket scratched out by the female is lined with bits of grass or weeds. As spring matures, hens select sites in new plant growth areas along fence rows, pastures, grasslands or idle agricultural lands.
Pheasants prefer wooded shelter belts for winter survival.
These areas provide loafing, feeding, roosting and escape cover from predators such as foxes, coyotes and bobcats. Wintering birds may form flocks for protection, usually with the sexes separate. When flushed, pheasants may rise vertically or diagonally to avoid collisions. Males produce a loud metallic whirring sound from their wings as they fly, although they may fly silently. Flight patterns may contain rapid wingbeats punctuate with gliding.