An avian spectacle and a symbol of grace and beauty, aptly chosen as the national bird of India. This species is celebrated not only for its ornate appearance but also for its cultural significance in Indian tradition and mythology.
Peafowls are known for their striking sexual dimorphism. The male, commonly referred to as a peacock, sports a brilliant array of iridescent blue and green plumage. The feathers themselves do not possess pigment for these vibrant blues and greens but instead are composed of microscopic structures that refract light, creating this vivid optical phenomenon. The peacock’s train, which is not its tail but elongated upper-tail covert feathers, can reach lengths of up to 1.5 meters (about 5 feet) and is adorned with eye-like patterns known as ocelli. During courtship displays, the male fans out this spectacular train to attract a mate, a sight which is among the most remarkable in the animal kingdom.
The crest atop the head of both males and females is another distinguishing feature. These crests, or crowns, are composed of a fan of feathers that add to their regal appearance. Females, known as peahens, are less flamboyant, with muted brown and green plumage that serves as excellent camouflage, especially when they are tending to their nests on the ground.
Indian Peafowls are ground feeders that forage in the underbrush for a variety of dietary items, including grains, insects, small reptiles, and plant matter. Despite being terrestrial foragers, they are adept fliers, especially when roosting. They prefer to spend the night at a height on tree branches, which affords them protection from ground predators.
These birds are indigenous to South Asia but have been introduced in many other parts of the world. Their adaptability to various habitats has been a key factor in their successful introduction. They thrive in forests and are also commonly found on the edges, near agricultural lands, where they can be seen foraging for food.
Distribution
Australia
Bahamas
Bangladesh
Bhutan
India
Nepal
New Zealand
Pakistan
Saint Helena
Official estimate
Sri Lanka
United StatesAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd / Flock
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
