Size: Large bird, one of the largest in the pheasant family.
Length:
Males: up to 2.3 m (7.5 ft) including train.
Females: ~86–110 cm (2.8–3.6 ft).
Weight:
Males: 4–6 kg (9–13 lbs).
Females: 2.5–4 kg (6–9 lbs).
Plumage:
Males (Peacocks): Metallic blue neck and breast, greenish-bronze fan-shaped tail train with iridescent eye-spots (ocelli). Train is not tail feathers but elongated upper tail coverts.
Females (Peahens): Brown and dull green, no train, white underparts—helps with camouflage.
Crest: Both sexes have a fan-shaped crest on the head.
Mating System: Polygynous—males display to attract multiple females.
Courtship: Males fan out their train, shake it, and call loudly.
Breeding Season: Usually during monsoon (varies by region).
Clutch Size: 3–6 eggs.
Incubation: ~28–30 days (female only).
Chick Care: Peahens raise young alone; chicks are precocial and can walk soon after hatching.
Social, often found in small groups.
Roost in tall trees at night for protection.
Loud, harsh calls, especially during breeding season.
Omnivorous diet: seeds, grains, fruits, insects, small reptiles, and even small snakes.
Territorial males—will defend display grounds during mating season.
