Peacock (Indian Peafowl)
NamePeacock (Indian Peafowl)
Common NameIndian Peafowl
Scientific NamePavo cristatus
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)145
Length (cm)210
Weight (g)5000
Plumage DetailsAdult males have an iridescent blue neck and breast, a fan-like crest of wire-like feathers tipped with blue, and a long, flowing train of elongated upper tail coverts adorned with metallic blue-green 'eyespots'. Their back is bronze-green. Females are duller, with a mix of dull green, brown, and grey plumage, a white belly, and a green neck.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a loud, piercing, cat-like 'mee-ow' or 'ka-aan' call, often repeated, especially during the breeding season or when alarmed.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, shrubland, grassland, agricultural_land
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to the Indian subcontinent, including India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. It has been widely introduced and naturalized in many other parts of the world.
Identifying Featuresiridescent blue head and neck (male), long, elaborate tail train with eyespots (male), distinctive fan-like crest, large size, loud, piercing call
Description
The Indian Peafowl is a large, striking pheasant native to the Indian subcontinent. Males are renowned for their elaborate, iridescent blue-green tail feathers, which they display during courtship. These ground-dwelling birds are often found in open forests and cultivated areas.
