The silver pheasant is a national second-class protected animal, valued both for viewing and for breeding

The silver pheasant (Lophura nycthemera) is a large bird of the order Galliformes and the family Phasianidae, also known as the silver chicken and white pheasant, and is mainly distributed in the mountainous areas of southern China and throughout Southeast Asia. The male bird's plumage is mainly white, with a black crest on top of the head, black markings dotted across the upper body and tail feathers, and long, slender tail feathers, giving it an elegant posture when it walks; the female is mostly brown with markings, plain in plumage, and clearly different from the male.

The silver pheasant mostly inhabits evergreen broad-leaved forests and mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forests, and is good at running on the forest floor; when in danger it relies more on running fast to escape than on flying. During the day they often move about in small flocks, feeding mainly on tender plant shoots, fruits and seeds, and also taking insects and other small animals, so their diet is rather varied.

In terms of protection, the silver pheasant is a national second-class key protected wild animal, and wild populations are strictly protected by law; no one may capture, hunt or trade them without authorization. At the same time, its plumage is lovely and its bearing refined, giving it outstanding ornamental value, and in traditional culture it is also often regarded as a symbol of good fortune.

As for breeding and use, the silver pheasant can be domesticated and bred artificially as a special economic poultry species, but the relevant permits must be obtained in accordance with the law and stock must be introduced through proper channels. The breeding site should be chosen in a quiet, sunny spot with good drainage, and perches and shelter should be set up within the enclosure; in daily work, feed formulation, drinking water hygiene and epidemic prevention and disinfection must be done well, and systematically learning the relevant techniques before starting will provide greater assurance.