 PHOTO: KENNETH W. FINK |
PHOTO: KENNETH W. FINK |
|
There is no need to describe the lovely Indian or Blue Peafowl which is well-known to everyone. Much religious superstition surrounds them and many consider it unlucky to have the tail feathers in the house. In Hindu countries peafowl are considered sacred and are therefore not trapped or hunted. Under these conditions they became very tame. They are easy to keep in aviaries although prone to the disease blackhead.
Indian Peafowl are really too large to be ideal aviary birds and look their best when at liberty. However, they can be damaging to gardens and have the disadvantage of a harsh, strident call, particularly in the breeding season. There is one mutation, the blackwinged or black-shouldered, and a few color variations, including the white and the pied.
|
| Avicultural Notes | |
| Minimum aviary size | 400 sq. ft. (37 m2) |
| Status in captivity | Numerous |
| Full adult plumage | Third year |
| Egg clutch size | 4 - 8 eggs |
| Incubation Period | 27 - 29 days |
| Feeding Habits | Normal pheasant diet |