Indian Blue Peafowl
Pavo cristatus
Class
Aves
Order
Galliformes
Family
Phasianidae
Indian Blue Peafowl
Range
India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka
Size
Weight: Up to 13 lbs
Habitat
Open forests near streams
Young
Clutch: 3 - 6 eggs
Incubation: 28 - 30 days
Diet
Grains, insects, flowers, fruit, and small vertebrates
IUCN Status
Least Concern
The peacock flaunts one of the most impressive courting displays of any bird.
He will unfold his ornate feathers into a magnificent fan 6 to 7 feet wide and more than 3 feet high! The ornamental train (4.6 - 5.25 feet in length) accounts for more than 60% of their total body length.
Peacocks, Peahens, and Peachicks
Indian blue peafowl are the largest birds in the pheasant family. Although this species is most commonly known as the peacock, only the males are true peacocks. Females are peahens and babies are peachicks. Peafowl roost overnight in large groups in tall, open trees to stay safe from predators.
From Ornamental Train to Camouflage
The peacock has striking blue and green plumage, a distinctive crest, and an unmistakable ornamental train of feathers. The long feathers are the male's tail coverts, which cover the base of the tail. The peahen's drab coloration helps her blend in with her surroundings and protect her nest and young.
Distinctive Call
Peacocks make a loud, distinct call that sounds like "may-awe, may-awe". It is usually heard in the early morning and late evening, and more frequently during breeding season.
Status
The Indian peafowl is the national bird of India and is protected in that country. To Hindus, the peafowl is a sacred bird; the spots on the peacock’s train symbolize the eyes of the gods.
The Indian peafowl is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, with a population estimated to be over 100,000. However, illegal poaching and habitat loss pose threats to wild populations.