Every spring the Department of Environmental Conservation offers an opportunity for 4-Hers to receive free pheasant chicks to raise for eventual release into the wild. This excellent opportunity gives 4-Hers the chance to learn about raising game birds and contribute to the betterment of hunting for all.
New as of 2024! All pheasant chick registration and pick up will be handled directly through DEC, not the 4-H Office. You can find a link here:
Release of Pheasants
All birds must be released before December 1st of the current year and on land open to public hunting. Pheasants cannot be released until they are 8 weeks old or older. This allows the growing birds time to acclimate to the environment in an outdoor pen. Birds should never be released to the outdoors directly from the brooding facility.
After Completion
A Pheasant Raising Project Record must be completed and returned to the Extension office. A copy of the Project Record will be given to you when you pick up your chicks.
Need help?
A complete Day-old Pheasant Chick Program Guide can be downloaded from the NYS DEC website. This guide will help in preparing for and raising pheasants.
For questions or more information, contact the 4-H Office or 4-H Staff
(607) 865-6531