Was fenghuang the Chinese phoenix really a golden pheasant?

The fenghuang, often referred to as the Chinese phoenix, is a mythical bird symbolizing virtue and grace in Chinese culture, distinct from the golden pheasant. While the golden pheasant (Chrysolophus pictus) is a real bird known for its vibrant plumage, the fenghuang represents a composite of various avian characteristics and embodies deeper cultural and philosophical meanings. Thus, the fenghuang is not merely a golden pheasant, but rather a legendary creature with symbolic significance in Chinese mythology.