Is a cock pheasant easier or harder to catch on the fly compared to a hen pheasant?

The assertion that a cock pheasant is easier to catch on the fly and harder on the ground is grounded in the behavior of these birds. Male pheasants, or cocks, are generally more aggressive and tend to take off in flight more readily when threatened, especially during the breeding season when they exhibit more conspicuous behaviors. This inclination to fly can make them more predictable and thus easier to target for falconry.

On the ground, however, cocks are often more cautious and will use cover effectively to evade capture, making them harder to catch at that level. They can blend into their environment and navigate through dense vegetation, which could complicate attempts to capture them when they are grounded.

On the contrary, hen pheasants are known to be more elusive, often relying on stealth and camouflage to avoid detection. Thus, they can be more challenging to catch while flying as well. Overall, the behavioral differences between male and female pheasants provide insight into their respective vulnerabilities during different hunting conditions, supporting the rationale behind the correct answer.