Western North America, and north central plains, great lakes area and some seen but mostly declining in New England states.

Grasslands, grainfields, nearby brush and woodland edges. Takes waste grain when available. Seen alone or in small groups, often a male with harem. Very wary.

Large bird, will walk unless disrupted and takes to flight. Long pointed tail. Male has iridescent, but colors variable and some can lack the neck ring. Some can have white wings or green bodies. Red eye patch is always present. Females are smaller mottled brown.

Seen in Birch Bay walking in a mobile home park.