Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus)
Words and picture: Matt Sewell

Along with roads, public libraries and stinging nettles, the Pheasant was one of many wonderful things that the Romans brought to Britain. So don’t listen to the nonsense put forward by certain members of society who claim that the Pheasant was introduced only for sport – he has been dashing from the undergrowth and over roads long before the gun was even invented. Bottle green and glorious golden chestnut, with a long tail that streaks like a comet, the Pheasant is a work of celestial beauty.

Matt Sewell’s new book, Our Woodland Birds, is published by Ebury on 26 June. Pre-order a signed copy from the Caught by the River shop now.