Indian Peafowl (Peacock)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Galliformes, Family: Phasianidae, Genus: Pavo, Species: Pavo cristatus
Family: Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Allies)
- Shape
- Symmetrical to slightly asymmetrical, elongated, and tapered toward a rounded tip. The vane is narrow and streamlined.
- Size
- Approximately 5 to 7 inches in length. This is a shorter tail feather, likely from a female or a juvenile/sub-adult male, as it lacks the extreme length and ocellus (eye spot) of an adult male's upper tail coverts.
- Rarity
- Common (as an introduced or captive species); Very Common in its native range.
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Description
This is a structural tail feather from an Indian Peafowl. Unlike the famous iridescent 'train' feathers of the male, this feather serves the functional purpose of flight and balance. The bird is a large, ground-dwelling phasianid known for the male's spectacular display. Females and young birds remain cryptically colored in browns and creams to avoid predators while nesting.
Colour & Pattern
Base color is an off-white or cream, transitioning into complex dark brown and tan barred patterning (vermiculation). The tip is solid dark brown. This mottled camouflage pattern is characteristic of females (peahens) or immature males.
Barb Structure
Tightly pennaceous along the majority of the vane, with distinct, stiff barbs. The base shows a small amount of plumulaceous (fluffy) down for insulation.
Texture & Surface
Relatively stiff and smooth. The surface has a slight waxy or glossy sheen typical of Galliformes, designed to be durable and somewhat water-resistant.
Key Features
Distinctive 'salt and pepper' vermiculation pattern, ivory-colored rachis, and the stiff, elongated shape typical of pheasant-family tail feathers.
Habitat
Deciduous forests, scrublands, and cultivated areas. They prefer habitats with tall trees for roosting and clearings for foraging.
Geographic Range
Native to the Indian subcontinent (India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan). However, they have been introduced globally and are commonly found in parks, farms, and estates across North America, Europe, and Australia.
Ecological Role
Omnivorous foragers that control insect populations and disperse seeds. In their native range, they serve as a primary prey source for large cats like leopards and tigers.
Similar Species
Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) feathers are broader and darker; Ring-necked Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) tail feathers are more pointed and have different banding intervals.
Interesting Facts
While the male's train can be over 5 feet long, the actual tail feathers (rectrices, like this one) are hidden underneath to support the weight of the display feathers during the 'fan' dance.
Condition Notes
Good condition. The barbs are mostly intact with minor 'zipper' separation at the base. No significant wear or fault bars are visible.