
Indian Peafowl (Blue Peacock)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Galliformes, Family: Phasianidae, Genus: Pavo, Species: P. cristatus
Family: Phasianidae (Pheasants and allies)
- Shape
- Symmetrical vane with a broadly rounded tip and soft, fluffy lower barbs
- Size
- Approximately 4 to 6 inches long, consistent with large body coverts of the species
- Rarity
- Very Common (due to widespread domestication and feral populations worldwide)
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Description
The Indian Peafowl is a large and brilliantly colored bird best known for the male's extravagant train of elongated upper tail coverts. This specific feather, likely from the neck or breast, features a soft brownish body that culminates in a striking, highly iridescent blue-green rounded tip that glints in the light.
Colour & Pattern
Rich grayish-brown lower barbs transitioning sharply to a brilliant, metallic iridescent blue and green rounded tip with a dark border
Barb Structure
Pennaceous upper portion with tightly interlocked barbs transitioning to a plumulaceous (fluffy) base
Texture & Surface
Silky and soft at the base with a smooth, glossy, and iridescent metallic finish at the rounded tip
Key Features
Brilliant metallic blue-green coloration at the rounded tip contrasting sharply with the grayish-brown, fluffy lower barbs and pale rachis
Habitat
Deciduous forests, farmlands, and scrub jungles, often near water sources and cultivated areas
Geographic Range
Native to the Indian subcontinent; widely introduced and feral populations exist globally in parks and rural areas
Ecological Role
Omnivorous ground foragers that help control insect and small vertebrate populations while serving as prey for large carnivores
Similar Species
Green Peafowl (Pavo muticus), which features greener and more scaly-looking neck feathers
Interesting Facts
Despite their massive trains, peacocks are capable of short flights into trees to escape predators and roost at night
Condition Notes
Good condition, clean with intact barbs and no major fraying or structural damage visible