While ringnecked pheasants are good short-distance fliers, they would rather run, but when startled they can suddenly burst upwards at great speeds, with a distinctive "whirring" wing sound. Their flight speed is only 27 to 38 mph when cruising but when chased they can fly up to 60 mph. The male pheasant wings are absolute gorgeous with shades of white, creme, taupe and burgundy.