There are about 185 species in the Phasianidae family. This family includes pheasants, partridges, peafowl, turkeys, quail, junglefowl, and their relatives. Most are ground-dwelling birds that eat seeds, leaves, berries, insects, and other small animals.

These birds have plump bodies, strong legs, and short, rounded wings. Many species, such as the Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), have broad tails that spread into a fan when displayed. Others, such as the Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus), are famous for their bright colors and long, colorful tail feathers.

In many species, males and females look different. Males are often larger and have brighter colors, longer tails, or special feathers used to attract mates. Females are usually smaller and have duller brown or gray feathers that help them blend into their surroundings while nesting.

Most females lay large clutches of eggs in simple nests on the ground. Their chicks are precocial, meaning they hatch with their eyes open, covered in down, and can walk and feed themselves soon after hatching.

Because many species are raised for food or hunted as game birds, people have introduced them to parts of the world outside their native range.