8 Facts About Peacocks That Explain Why They Are the Way They Are

by N/A, 10 years ago | 1 min read

Peacocks are some of the most beautiful and fascinating birds in the world. These facts will give you a new appreciation for them.Â

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1. Females technically aren't peacocks.

Only the males are called peacocks. The females are peahens. The babies are peachicks. Collectively they're called peafowl.Â

2. There are all white peafowl.

This is caused by a genetic mutation called leucism that causes pigmentation loss.Â

3. A group of peafowl is called a bevy.

Sometimes they're also called a party, ostentation or a muster.

4. They aren't born with big beautiful tails.

Male peachicks start developing their tails around age three. They are usually indistinguishable from one another until they reach six months and start changing color.Â

5. They don't have to be killed for their feathers.

Peacocks shed their feathers after mating season so they can be gathered and sold without causing any injury to the bird.Â

6. They're feathers are covered in tiny crystals.

They're microscopic and reflect different wavelengths of light. The spacing of the crystals results in bright fluorescent colors. The wings of hummingbirds and butterflies have the same effect.

7. In medieval times, peacocks were a delicacy.

They were plucked, roasted and redressed so they'd look alive while sitting on the table. People said that they tasted terrible and caused digestive problems.Â

8. They can fly.

They're large tail feathers don't stop them from flying, but they still can't fly for very long.Â