National Bird of India UPSC Notes: Features & Characteristics of Peacock

The National Bird of India is the Indian peacock (Pavo cristatus), a species that stands out due to its dazzling and iridescent plumage, especially the long, colorful tail feathers adorned with eye-like patterns. The peacock symbolizes grace, beauty, and elegance, which aligns with the rich cultural and natural heritage of India. It was declared the national bird in 1963 to symbolize the country's diverse and vibrant wildlife.

Source: National Portal of India

The topic National Bird of India UPSC is one of the most important topics for UPSC IAS Examination.

In this article on the National Bird of India UPSC, we shall discuss its important features & a few other details. This will be very useful for aspirants in the UPSC Prelims Exam.

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What is the National Bird of India?

The national bird of India is the Indian Peafowl, commonly known as the Peacock (scientific name: Pavo cristatus). It was declared the national bird of India in 1963 due to its cultural, religious, and ecological significance.

Why is Peacock the National Bird of India?

• The Peacock was chosen as the national bird of India due to its association with Indian culture, mythology, and symbolism.
• It is considered a symbol of grace, beauty, and elegance in Indian traditions.
• Lord Krishna also depicted the feather of a peacock on his forehead.
• Peacock is also the vehicle of Lord Murugan.
• The Peacock's vibrant and colorful plumage represents the rich biodiversity and cultural diversity of India.
• Peacocks are found all over the Indian region.
• The government also uses peacock in many of the publications, and it also does not coincide with any of the national birds of any other nation.

Also learn about the National Aquatic Animal of India here!

Characteristics of the National Bird of India

• Scientific Name: Pavo cristatus
• Plumage: The male peacock is renowned for its bright iridescent blue and green feathers, particularly its fan-shaped tail feathers that it can spread out in a display. These tail feathers have eye-like spots, called ocelli.
• Size: Male peacocks can grow up to 100-115 cm in body length, with an additional 100-150 cm in tail length. Females (peahens) are generally smaller and lack the elaborate tail.
• Diet: Peacocks are omnivorous. Their diet includes seeds, grains, insects, small reptiles, berries, and plants. They often forage on the ground and are known to adapt well to agricultural environments.
• Behavior: Peacocks are known for their loud calls, which can be heard during the breeding season. The males perform elaborate courtship displays by fanning out their tail feathers and shaking them to attract females.
• Habitat: They are typically found in deciduous forests, scrublands, and near human settlements where they can find food and shelter. They are adaptable birds that can thrive in a variety of environments.
• Distribution: Peacocks are native to the Indian subcontinent. They are also found in neighboring countries such as Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.

Also, check out the article on Biodiversity for UPSC preparation!

Threats Faced by the National Bird of India Peacock

• Habitat Loss: Rapid urbanization, deforestation, and agricultural expansion lead to significant habitat loss for peacocks. This reduces their living spaces and affects their breeding grounds.
• Hunting and Poaching: Despite legal protections, peacocks are sometimes hunted for their meat and feathers. Illegal poaching continues to be a threat in some regions.
• Pesticides: The use of chemical pesticides in agriculture can contaminate the peacock’s food sources, leading to poisoning and health issues.
• Human Encroachment: Increased human activities such as building and infrastructure development encroach on their natural habitats. They displace their living patterns and cause displacement.
• Climate Change: Changes in climate can affect their habitat and food availability, posing long-term risks to their population.

Conservation Status of Peacocks

The Indian peacock is listed as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to its wide distribution and stable population. However, localized threats require ongoing conservation efforts. In India, the peacock is protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, which prohibits hunting and trade of peacocks and their feathers. Conservation initiatives focus on habitat preservation, anti-poaching measures, and raising public awareness about the importance of the species.

Check out Tiger Conservation in India here.

Top 20 Facts about the National Bird of India Peacock

• Indian peacocks are the swan's size and are indigenous to Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar and India.
• Peacock is the National Bird of India.
• For the first time, the peacock was recognised as the National bird of India on 1st February 1963.
• The peacock bird is found all over the country and is also well known to the common masses of India.
• Peacocks also hold a strong significance in Indian cultural history.
• It is also used as an image of the god of rain, thunder, and war in Hinduism.
• It has been given complete protection under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
• They are also considered sacred by the Hindus as it is also linked to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva.
• Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya dynasty, is also considered to be the son of peacock tamers or the ‘Mayur Poshikas’ in Sanskrit.
• The peacocks are omnivorous and are usually found in low altitude grasslands, adjacent human habitats, and forest plains.
• The Red List of IUCN categorizes the peacocks under the least concerned category.
• Peacock has strong historical and religious significance in Indian culture, leading to its selection as India's National Bird.
• This bird is vibrant and resembles a swan in size, featuring a fan-shaped crest, a white patch beneath the eye, and a long, slender neck.
• Peacocks can be found in various regions of India and have an omnivorous diet, consuming insects, flowers, and seeds, as well as small rodents and lizards.
• They are beneficial to farmers as they help control harmful insects.
• The male peacock, the Peacock, displays more vivid colors and beauty than its female counterpart, the Peahen.
• Peacocks are larger and have heavier bodies than Peahens.
• Despite their large size and massive feathers, peacocks are capable of flight, although they can only fly a little high or cover long distances.
• Peacocks have a lifespan of up to twenty years.
• Each year, peacocks shed their feathers, and new ones grow in their place.

Checkout the article on the Great Indian Hornbill here!

National Bird Day of India

National Bird Day of India is an annual celebration dedicated to the appreciation and protection of birds. Observed on January 5th each year, the day aims to raise awareness about the importance of bird conservation, the threats that birds face in the wild, and the joy that birds bring to people and the environment. It encourages bird watching, education about bird species, and advocacy for policies that protect birds and their habitats.

Source: Govt. of Nagaland

We hope that all your doubts regarding the National Bird of India will be cleared after going through this article. You can download the Testbook App now to check out various other topics relevant to the UPSC IAS Exam.

• Interesting Facts About the National Animal of India UPSC Notes