Indian Peacock

About Indian Peacock

• The Indian Peacock is India’s national bird and a large, colourful member of the pheasant family.
• Scientific Name: Its scientific name is Pavo cristatus.
• Habitat: It occurs in deciduous forests, shrublands, grasslands, forest edges and agricultural areas, including areas near human settlements with water sources.
• Distribution: It is native to India and Sri Lanka.
• Characteristics:
  • The male is called a peacock. The female is called a peahen, while young ones are called peachicks.
  • Appearance: The male has bright blue feathers and a long, iridescent tail train with eye-shaped spots,
    • Female has brown plumage, a shorter tail and slight green accents on the neck.
  • Sexual Dimorphism: Males and females differ clearly in their physical appearance.
  • Behaviour: It is generally ground-dwelling but roosts on trees at night.
    • Males defends its territory and forms harems during the breeding season.
  • Diet: It is omnivores and feeds on seeds, fruits, flowers, insects, small reptiles and small mammals.
    • It may also eat crops near agricultural areas.
  • Breeding: It is polygamous, and its breeding season usually coincides with the monsoon.
    • Males displays its feathers to attract females.
  • Vocalization: It is known for its loud ‘may-yow’ call.
• Conservation Status
  • IUCN Red List: Least Concern
  • Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972