Indian peacock (scientific name Pavo cristatus) is native to Sri Lanka and India. The male bird is referred to as peacock and female bird as a peahen.
Let's read 9 unique points about this magnificent bird.
- Indian blue peafowl is National Bird of India.
- It is best known for its exquisite train and plumage. If the length of the tail (0.86 - 2.12 m) and wingspan (1.4 - 1.6 m) is included, the peafowl is considered one of the largest flying birds.
3. The white feathered peafowl has completely white feathers from the top of its head to the end of its train, with the ocelli barely visible.
4. Peahens choose the peacocks with the most ocelli. During mating season, peacocks maintain good tail conditions to improve their mating success.
5. Indian blue peafowl prefers a mostly solitary and isolated lifestyle.
6. The calls of Indian blue peafowl are extremely loud and are often described as unpleasant, harsh shrieking.
7. There are multiple mentions of peacocks in Indian mythology. Lord Kartikeya, a Hindu God of war and victory and is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati has peacock as his mount named Paravani. The peacock clutches a snake in its claws and this symbolises the destruction of bad habits and negative influences.
8. Indian blue peafowl is omnivorous. They consume insects, worms, lizards, frogs, termites and snakes.
9. India-France joint postal stamp released on 29-11-2003 featured 19th Century Minakari Peacock Motif. It is considered one of the most beautiful stamps released by them.
Many artefacts and home decor items are influenced by this bird and it is a popular "design" that is incorporated in various art forms including woodcraft. Our Peacock eyeglass holder or stand is one such design which is hand-carved from sustainably harvested Indian Rosewood and is a one-of-its-kind stand for keeping your glasses secure in a stylish manner.