The Indian peafowl was regarded as a status symbol by rulers in Asia Minor and Ancient Egypt over 3,000 years ago.
The males are characterised by shimmering blue plumage on the neck and head, as well as a long tail with shimmering colours. They reach a body length of 180 to 230 cm, of which only about 40 cm is accounted for by the tail itself. The striking train consists of around 150 coverts, which form part of the plumage on the back. During courtship, the coverts can be fanned out into an impressive wheel, with the actual tail serving as a support – a behaviour that serves the purpose of sexual selection and attracts potential females.
Like the males, the females also have a crest of feathers on their heads. However, their colouring is generally more inconspicuous. They have neither a train nor spurs on their legs.
Despite their long feathers, both sexes of the Indian peafowl can fly. However, they spend most of their time on the ground. At night, they fly up into a tree, where they spend the night. There, they are protected from predators.
For years on end, a peacock will use the same tree as its roost. Females also use the same nesting site every year. Apart from sleeping and nesting, the Indian peafowl is generally quite sedentary. It can therefore be kept free-range without any problems.
Taxonomy
Phasianidae, Pavo (2 species)
Habitat
scrubland and woodland
Behaviour and ecology
active at dusk and during the day, ground-dwelling, spends the night in sleeping trees
Migratory behaviour
sedentary
