23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
An Elegant Golden Pheasant, Native to China, Symbol of Luck, Prosperity and Fortune, in Ghana?

During a bus tour of Ghana I stayed at the Maaha Beach Resort. As I passed by a garden area on my way to breakfast, out popped this gorgeous Golden Pheasant. I was shocked to hear that the bird is native to China, not Ghana. Aviaries and private owners can keep these beautiful birds as pets in their care.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 01.2023
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Elonyi, Ghana
Camera: DMC-FZ70
Copyright: © Marilyn Adelman