Here are 10 fascinating facts about peacocks:
1. Only male peafowl are called peacocks, while females are peahens and their offspring are peachicks.
2. Peacocks are known for their stunning tail feathers, which can reach up to six feet long and make up about 60% of their body length.
3. These birds are omnivores, feeding on a variety of plants, insects, and even small reptiles like snakes.
4. Peacocks can fly despite their large size and elaborate tail feathers, though they typically only fly short distances.
5. The average lifespan of a peacock in the wild is about 20 years, but they can live up to 50 years in captivity.
6. Peacocks perform elaborate courtship displays by fanning out their tail feathers and vibrating them to create low-frequency sounds inaudible to humans.
7. These birds have been domesticated for thousands of years and have long been associated with royalty and wealth in various cultures.
8. Peacocks shed their elaborate tail feathers annually after the mating season.
9. There are three species of peafowl: the Indian peafowl, the Green peafowl, and the Congo peafowl.
10. Peacocks have a distinctive call often described as a loud "scream," which they use to communicate about food, danger, and mating.
