The snow is a perfect backdrop for the wonderful rich plumage on this fellow.
Excellent exposure, sharpness and comp.
I grew up in Iowa, where ring necked pheasants are very common. Sad to say I hunted them as a boy, but have gotten a bit smarter as an adult (at least in some ways:p)
It can get to -20 F at times, which is a bit nippy, but they were tough birds.
Nice work with the sidelight, esp. on the shadowed side. Pose is a bit awkward and I wish that we could see the feet. But the snow is cool :)
I like the head angle and the textured feathers of the neck, breast, and flanks.
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I love the different textures and colors of the feathers. Good job on the exposure especially considering the side lighting. I wouldn't mind seeing a more relaxed pose.