The peacock, India’s national bird, is often associated with colourful feathers, which fan out in a stunning display in the mating season. Peacocks unfurl their feathers in the shape of a fan and, through twirls and pirouettes, woo the peahens. These long tail feathers are heavy. A “train” (the long tail feathers) can extend 190 to 230 cm and is heavy. The weight of an adult male peacock can range from 8 to 13 pounds. Due to their heavy body structure, we assume they prefer terrestrial life to flight, as most birds do.

Male peafowls soaring high above like an eagle or sparrow may not be a common sight, but peacocks do possess the ability to fly. Their flight is generally restricted to short distances. Peacocks are not known for long-distance flight, but nature has equipped them to navigate both on land and in the sky. The peacock usually begins its flight with a few small hops. Their strong legs enable them to launch themselves into the air. They flap their wings vigorously and fly to the safety of high, sturdy branches of trees when threatened by predators or for safety during the night. 

Lustrous blue and green feathers in the sky are a breathtaking sight.

Peacocks are among the largest flying birds in the Phasianidae family. On the ground, it looks beautiful and in the air, majestic.

Text and photos by Prerna Jain.