The peacock, renowned for its stunningly colorful tail feathers adorned with round black spots bordered in gold and green that resemble magnificent eyes. When fully spread, its tail feathers can create a fan shape extending up to 2 meters in length.
Surprising Discoveries About Peacocks
Male peacocks fan their tails to attract female peacocks for mating. When threatened by predators, male peacocks also display their tails to appear larger and more intimidating.
Male peacocks fan their tails to attract females.
There are three types of peacocks: Indian peacock, green peacock, and Congo peacock. The most commonly seen peacock species worldwide, particularly in parks and zoos, is the Indian peacock. This species has a head and neck covered with blue feathers arranged like fish scales. It originates from South Asian countries such as Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and India.
The Congo peacock is native to Central Africa. This species does not have as large a tail as the other two peacock species. It is the national bird of the Republic of the Congo.
The feathers make up about 60% of the peacock’s body weight.
The green peacock is found in Southeast Asia, displaying bronze and green-yellow plumage. This species inhabits areas like Myanmar and Java. Due to hunting and habitat loss, it is considered a species at risk of extinction.
The feathers account for up to 60% of a peacock’s total body weight. The wingspan of this bird can reach up to 1.5 meters, making it one of the largest birds in the world.
The green peacock is native to Southeast Asia.
A peacock can live for over 20 years. The beautiful and vibrant tail feathers of male peacocks reach their peak splendor at the age of 5-6 years.
Peacocks have spurs on their legs, which they primarily use to fight other male peacocks. Peacocks are omnivorous, consuming a variety of plant materials, flower petals, seeds, insects, and even small reptiles like lizards.
