Pheasants comprise about 175 species of birds in the family Phasianidae, order Galliformes. "True pheasants" refer to the 50 species which include peafowl, jungle fowl, and pheasants. True pheasants are native to central and southern Asia and adjacent islands, as well as to west central Africa. Kept in aviaries as far back as ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, pheasants were introduced to other parts of the world. The birds eat berries, seeds, and grains and prefer open country with brush cover. These medium- to large-sized birds have spurs on their legs. The males are normally very colorful, while females have dull plumage.