Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus): The Vibrant National Bird of India

The Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus), popularly known as मोर or मयूर in Hindi, is one of the most iconic and spectacular birds in India. Officially declared the National Bird of India in 1963, this majestic creature holds a special place in Indian culture, mythology, art, and ecology.

Adored in poems, songs, folktales, and classical dances, the Indian peacock is a symbol of grace, elegance, and mystique. Its elaborate mating dance, where the male fans out his vividly colored "train" and performs rhythmic movements, is a mesmerizing spectacle. This courtship display usually takes place from December to the end of the monsoon season, most often in the early morning.

Interestingly, the shimmering "train" that attracts so much admiration isn’t the actual tail—it comprises elongated upper tail-coverts adorned with striking “eye spots” (ocelli). Each feather ends in a purplish-black heart-shaped center, encircled by blues, copper tones, and a fringe of green-bronze hues. While the male (peacock) flaunts this showy train, the female (peahen) is crested but lacks the ornate display, possessing a subtler beauty.

The Indian Peafowl is a common sight across rural and semi-urban India, often found around farms, open woodlands, and village outskirts. Remarkably adaptive, it coexists comfortably alongside humans and thrives in both natural and man-made landscapes.

In contrast to its stunning appearance, the peacock’s call—a loud, raw "meow-like" cry—is quite grating and abrupt. As omnivores, peafowls feed primarily on grains, seeds, and shoots, but also hunt insects, reptiles, and small snakes, playing a valuable role in pest control.

Peafowls build simple, shallow nests—a scrape in the ground lined with sticks and leaves, usually hidden in dense undergrowth to protect from predators. The female lays and incubates the eggs, often in isolation.

One of the most popular myths explaining the peacock’s beauty comes from the Ramayana. It’s said that when the demon king Ravana attacked heaven, Lord Indra, the king of gods, took refuge under a peacock’s wings. Grateful for the shelter, Indra blessed the bird: "You who were once plain and dull shall now bear a thousand eyes," granting it the stunning "eye spots" that now decorate its feathers.

In another well-known tale, the peacock is the vahana (vehicle) of Lord Kartikeya, son of Shiva and Parvati. The mount—named Paravani—was originally the demon Surapadman, transformed into a peacock after being defeated and split by Kartikeya’s divine spear (vel). Half of Surapadman became a rooster (the god’s emblem), and the other half, the peacock he now rides.

Throughout history, the Indian peafowl has been a muse for poets, painters, dancers, and storytellers. Its posture, rhythm, and colors continue to inspire Indian classical art forms, from Bharatanatyam to Mughal miniatures.

Despite its reverence and legal protection, the Indian peafowl faces threats from illegal hunting, especially for its meat and feathers. Habitat loss also poses a risk in some areas. Preserving this magnificent bird is vital to protecting India’s natural and cultural heritage.

Hindi Names Of Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus): मोर, मयूर

-- Ashutosh Jhureley @BirdsAround Me

Birds Around Me - Unfinished List (अपूर्ण सूची)

References:
1- Common Birds of India - Salim Ali & Laeeq Futahally
2- Studies in Bird Myths No. XII - Sarat Chandra Mitra