Abundance, impacts and resident perceptions of non-native common pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) in Jersey, UK Channel Islands.

Few species are able to establish themselves in a non-native range and expand their population to

impacts include widespread predation of native flora and fauna, competition and spread of

been the subject of introductions for recreational hunting across the globe for hundreds of years.

them. These mass introductions have prompted much research regarding the effects of pheasant

effects of naturalised populations of pheasants in areas where they are neither released nor their

the naturalised population of common pheasants on the Bailiwick of Jersey, UK Channel Islands.

the impacts of this non-native species on native wildlife and agriculture. Distance sampling was

Bird Survey data, provided by the British Trust for Ornithology, were also used to investigate

complement these findings and further inform management, an online questionnaire to analyse

pheasants. Highest concentrations were seen in the southeast (St. Clement) and northwest (St.

showing a preference for fields that contained shoots, mustard and bare ground. The long-term

perceive pheasants as having negative impacts on farmland birds, herpetofauna and crops, with

species. Despite this, pheasants are generally well received by residents with the majority 'agreeing'

having pheasants in Jersey. Pheasants are also considered to have a positive impact on birds of prey

numbers. Arable farmers displayed the most adverse opinions of pheasants and were significantly

believe pheasants should be protected by legislation and those who do not are almost equal.

game shooters polarise this view. The successful management of any invasive species or their

use. To this end, this study provides the baseline data required for future decisions on pheasant

management by policy makers in Jersey.