The Sri Lankan peacock(Pavo cristatus) is one of the island's most fascinating bird species. With its magnificent plumage and distinctive call, it is a symbol of beauty and pride. Often seen in the open landscapes of the dry zones, it is not only an impressive sight, but also plays an important role in the cultural and ecological fabric of Sri Lanka.
Name
- Scientific: Pavo cristatus
- Common: Sri Lankan peacock, Indian peacock
Endemic
- No. The peacock is common in many parts of South Asia, but is a common and distinctive part of Sri Lanka's wildlife.
Habitat and distribution
- Habitat: Open grasslands, forests and scrubland with access to water.
- Regions: Common in Yala, Wilpattu and Udawalawe National Park as well as in the dry zones in the south and east.
Visibility opportunity
- Probability: Very high - peacocks are easy to spot in Sri Lanka, especially in the morning and evening hours.
- Best conditions: Mating season (March to July), when the males are conspicuous with courtship behavior.
Characteristics and behavior
- Features:
- Males: Magnificent, iridescent tail feathers that grow up to 150 cm long.
- Female: More discreet, camouflage-colored plumage.
- Behavior:
- Foraging: Moves along the ground and feeds on a variety of plants and small animals.
- Social behavior: Forms groups with females and juveniles, males are territorial.
Dangerousness
- Dangerous for humans: No, they are harmless and retreat when threatened.
Special features
- Mythological meaning: Symbol of the god Murugan and a sign of enlightenment and purity in Buddhism.
- Adaptive advantage: Despite their striking coloration, peacocks have a pronounced flight behavior to escape predators.
Travel tips
- Best places: Yala and Wilpattu National Park.
- Best conditions: In the morning and evening during the mating season.
- Note: Respect their habitat and avoid making loud noises so as not to disturb the animals.
Additional details
- Breeding: 4-8 eggs per clutch, incubation period about 28 days.
- Life expectancy: 10-15 years.
- Endangered status: Not endangered, but threatened by deforestation.
