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Indian Peafowl (Feather from a peahen or young male peacock)
Flight feather (Remex); likely a primary wing feather

Indian Peafowl (Feather from a peahen or young male peacock)

Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Galliformes, Family: Phasianidae, Genus: Pavo, Species: Pavo cristatus

Family: Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Allies)

Shape
Highly asymmetrical vane, elongated and curved with a broad trailing edge and a narrow leading edge; rounded tip
Size
Estimated 25-35 cm (10-14 inches) in length; consistent with the large wingspan of a Galliform bird of this size
Rarity
Common; widely kept in domestication and frequently found in parks/estates globally
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Description

This feather exhibits the muted elegance of a female or immature Indian Peafowl. The large size and iridescent green sheen along the margin are diagnostic for this species. Peafowl are large ground-dwelling birds known for their spectacular displays and loud, piercing calls.

Colour & Pattern

Dull brownish-grey base with distinct metallic green and bronze iridescence along the leading edge; pale creamy-white rachis; lacks the 'eye' pattern of male coverts

Barb Structure

Densely interlocked pennaceous barbs on the upper 90% of the blade; plumulaceous (downy) structure at the very base

Texture & Surface

Smooth and glossy on the iridescent portion, matte on the brownish portions; stiff and rigid vane for powerful takeoff

Key Features

The combination of the large size, thick white rachis, and the subtle but intense green-bronze iridescence on a brown feather body is unique to this genus

Habitat

Open forests, woodland edges, and cultivated areas; also commonly found in urban parks and estates as captive or feral populations

Geographic Range

Native to South Asia (India and Sri Lanka); widely introduced and naturalized globally including parts of Europe, North America, and Australia

Ecological Role

Omnivorous foragers that control insect populations and disperse seeds; they are large prey items for leopards and tigers in their native range

Similar Species

Other large pheasants (like Argus Pheasants) or Wild Turkey, but Turkey feathers lack the green iridescence found on this specimen

Interesting Facts

Peafowl use their large wings for short, powerful bursts of flight to reach high roosting branches at night to avoid ground predators

Condition Notes

Excellent condition; fresh appearance with minimal wear to the tips and no visible fault bars or parasite damage

Indian Peafowl (Feather from a peahen or young male peacock) | Feather Identifier