Indian Blue Peafowl

Pavo cristatus

RANGE India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka

HABITAT Open forests near streams

DIET Grains, insects, flowers, fruit, and small vertebrates

Indian blue peafowl are the largest birds in the pheasant family. Although this species is most commonly known as the peacock, only the males are true peacocks. Females are peahens and babies are peachicks. The Indian Blue Peafowl is the national bird of India.

The peacock has striking blue and green plumage, a distinctive crest, and an unmistakable ornamental train of feathers. The long feathers are the male's tail coverts, which cover the base of the tail.

Peacocks make a loud, distinct call that sounds like "may-awe, may-awe". It is usually heard in the early morning and late evening, and more frequently during breeding season.

The peacock flaunts one of the most impressive courting displays of any bird. He will unfold his ornate feathers into a magnificent fan 6 to 7 feet wide and more than 3 feet high! The ornamental train (4.6 - 5.25 feet in length) accounts for more than 60% of their total body length.

Peafowl roost overnight in large groups in tall, open trees to stay safe from predators. The peahen's drab coloration helps her blend in with her surroundings and protect her nest and young.