Contact
Contact
Roar & Rove

Peacock

Content Image
Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (LC)

LIFE SPAN
  • In the Wild: Typically 10-20 years
  • In Captivity: Can live up to 20 years
Body size
  • Length: Approximately 100-120 cm (39-47 inches), including its long tail feathers.
  • Weight: Males can weigh between 3.5-5 kg (7.7-11 lbs), while females are generally smaller, weighing around 2.75-4 kg (6-8.8 lbs).
Native habitat
  • Geographical Range: Found exclusively in Sri Lanka, inhabiting a variety of habitats ranging from dense forests to open grasslands and cultivated areas.
  • Habitat: The Sri Lanka Peacock prefers habitats with access to water sources and open spaces for displaying and foraging. It is commonly observed in national parks and protected areas such as Udawalawe and Bundala National Parks.
Diet
  • Seeds, grains, and fruits.
    Insects, small reptiles, and amphibians.
    Occasional small mammals.
Peacock (Pavo cristatus)

The Peacock, a symbol of beauty and grace, is a stunning bird native to the vibrant landscapes of Sri Lanka. Renowned for its iridescent plumage and majestic courtship displays, it holds a special place in both natural history and cultural heritage.

Physical Characteristics: The Peacock is characterized by its striking features:

Size: Males, known as peacocks, are larger and more colorful than females, called peahens. They typically measure 100-120 cm (39-47 inches) in length, including their long, elegant tail feathers.
Plumage: The peacock’s most distinctive feature is its extravagant tail, or “train,” which can reach lengths of up to 150 cm (59 inches). The train is adorned with brilliant eye-spots and displays a vibrant array of iridescent blues, greens, and bronzes. In contrast, peahens have a more subdued coloration, helping them blend into their surroundings for protection.

Habitat: Geographical Range: Found exclusively in Sri Lanka, the peacock inhabits a variety of habitats, including dry forests, scrublands, and cultivated areas.
Habitat: They prefer habitats with access to water and open spaces for displaying their plumage. Peacocks are commonly observed in national parks and protected areas across Sri Lanka, such as Yala and Wilpattu National Parks.

Diet: The diet of peafowl is omnivorous and includes:

  • Seeds, grains, and fruits.
    Insects, small reptiles, and amphibians.
    Occasional small mammals and other invertebrates.

Behavior:
Peacocks are diurnal birds and spend much of their day foraging on the ground for food. Males are renowned for their elaborate courtship displays during the breeding season, where they fan out their tail feathers into a spectacular display. This display is accompanied by vocalizations and ritualized movements to attract females. Outside of the breeding season, peafowl may form loose social groups.

Conservation Status: The conservation status of the Peacock is not separately assessed on the IUCN Red List. However, they are protected under national wildlife conservation laws in Sri Lanka. Habitat loss, illegal hunting, and disturbance from human activities are ongoing threats to their populations.

Lifespan: In the wild, peafowl typically live between 10-20 years, with some individuals in captivity living longer under optimal conditions.