Peacocks for their magnificent tail have become such a symbol of external beauty and dapper. Perhaps, only the tail and allocates these birds from many others. The tail serves peacock males for attracting females mainly – the tail is more magnificent, so the male is more attractive. However, we must admit that thanks to this tail, peacocks are rightly considered to be one of the most beautiful birds in the world.
Peacocks are considered to be one of the most beautiful birds in the world due to their luxurious “tail”, blown out by a fan. True, such a flashy beauty is inherent only in males.
In fact, the tail of the peacocks is very small and unremarkable. The feathers, which form a multi-colored “fan” behind them, grow above the tail.
Peacocks are close relatives of chickens (see interesting facts about chickens).
Peacocks are imprinted in many proverbs, idioms and works of art.
A peacock is one of the constellations in the Southern Hemisphere.
An ordinary peacock is a national symbol of India and Iran, since in Hinduism this bird is revered as sacred.
American television company NBC since 1956 used as its logo 4 options for the image of a peacock.
In the religion of the Yezidis, the supreme archangel Malak Tavus is portrayed as a peacock.
Peacocks live about 20 years. Their beautiful feathers grow when the birds are 3 years old.
Each peacock male cohabitates simultaneously with three females.
The fan of feathers helps males to attract representatives of the opposite sex – most birds use singing for this, but peacocks do not have a pleasant voice.
The length of one peacock feather can reach 2 meters.
Peacocks need peacocks not only to attract females, but also to deter enemies – the predator sees a lot of “eyes” that appear from nowhere, is lost and recedes.
Peacock “tail” has a third purpose – birds communicate with it. Scientists have found out that peacock feathers transmit infrasound during movement, which people can not hear. Presumably, so the birds warn each other of danger.
Peacocks fly well, despite the long bulky feathers, although they do it quite rarely.
Peacocks are very cautious birds; by their behavior one can learn about the approach of natural disasters, for example, a strong thunderstorm or a hurricane (see interesting facts about hurricanes).
In the east, peacocks are considered a symbol of immortality and pride. In Russia, their image is more likely associated with immoderate pride and narcissism.
In some countries it is believed that keeping the house of peacock feathers brings trouble.
Peacocks are able to please not only the eye, but also the stomach – dishes from their meat are considered delicacies in many world cuisines. The first Russian, who tasted this meat, was Tsar Ivan the Terrible.
Tibetan monks believe that peacock meat enhances tone and immunity, and also helps to cure eye diseases.
In the past, a fan of peacock feathers in the hands of women meant belonging to the upper strata of society. The knights used feathers to decorate their helmets.
Tattoos depicting peacocks symbolize beauty, kindness and the desire for a bright, full life events. (also, check Interesting facts about tattoos)
In the southern countries, the peacock’s marriage games fall during the rainy season, so many locals believed that these birds are able to call for rain (see interesting facts about the rain).
Peacocks are wonderful hunters for young cobras, so in India they are often kept near houses, despite the piercing cries of birds that prevent sleep at night.
The length of the peacock’s body is 100-125 centimeters, but taking into account the feathers of the overtail this figure is tripled.
