Fun Facts about Peacocks: The National Bird of India

We bring you some facts about the attractive bird in this story. Read on to find out. 

Our country has one of the most beautiful creations of nature as its national bird. Peacock reminds us of many things- the rainy season, kaleidoscope of bright colours, greenery and happiness. The dance of peacock with its feathers spread out is a sight to behold. They have attracted the curiosity of scientists since time immemorial and continue to do so. Their massive trains are fascinating, and so is their ability to fly despite its enormous size.

Here are some interesting facts about this feathery bird which is going to help you know it better.

  1. Peacocks have been domesticated and bred by human beings for more than 2000 years in recorded history.
  2. The Indian peacock is considered to be entirely extinct in the neighbouring country of Bangladesh. However, the bird is found in India, Pakistan and Srilanka.
  3. ‘Peacock’ is not a blanket term for all the members of the family. A female is known as a peahen, and their younger ones are known as peachicks. Only the males are known as peacocks, and they all belong to the peafowl category.
  4. The scientists have found out only three different species in the peafowls. Two of which are originated in Asia and one in Africa. Asian species include the Indian blue peafowl and the green peafowl. The African species of the bird is found in Congo basin and named as Congo peafowl.
  5. The majestic bird is known to live up in the wild for twenty years. However, they could live much longer in captivity. Some of them also live up until fifty years in a secure human-made environment.
  6. Peacocks are one of the largest flying birds on the planet. Their feathers could be as long as six feet in length and comprise of 60% of their body weight. However, their flights are not long nor very high.
  7. With the advancement of science and the technique of selective breeding, an all-white peacock could be found today. And they should not be mistaken for being albino, for their eyes retain their natural colour.
  8. In India, the peacock is not customarily hunted. Thanks to our culture and religious beliefs, the bird is protected and also revered in our country.
  9. The newly born peacocks are born without feathers. They only grow their long feathery trains only when they reach at the age of three.
Let’s remember to cherish the beauty of these fabulous birds and pledge to save their habitats so that they remain well-looked-after for our coming generations.

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