Indian Peafowl

Pavo cristatus

The Indian Peafowl, scientifically known as Pavo cristatus, is a resplendent bird native to the Indian subcontinent. Renowned for its striking appearance, the male Indian Peafowl, or peacock, is famous for its iridescent blue-green plumage and a spectacular train of feathers adorned with eye-catching, colorful eyespots. These elongated upper-tail coverts are spread out in a majestic fan during courtship displays, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of vibrant hues and intricate patterns. In contrast, the female, known as the peahen, possesses more subdued brown feathers that provide excellent camouflage in their natural habitat.

Indian Peafowls inhabit a variety of environments, from open lowland forests to farmland and scrublands. They are adept at both flying short distances to escape predators and being terrestrial grazers, feeding primarily on seeds, insects, and small creatures. Social by nature, these birds often move in small groups, and during the breeding season, they exhibit elaborate courtship behaviors, with males performing their fanning displays accompanied by loud, resonant calls.

The Indian Peafowl plays a significant role in cultural and religious contexts across its native range, symbolizing beauty, grace, and pride. It is the national bird of India, representing the country's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Despite being listed by the IUCN as a species of least concern due to its wide distribution and stable population, habitat loss and hunting continue to pose threats in certain areas, necessitating continuing conservation efforts.