Bird guideIndian Peafowl

While it originated in the Indian subcontinent, it has since been introduced to many other parts of the world.

⚠️Not listed
🍃Indigenous: Peafowl

At a glance

FamilyPheasants, Grouse, and Allies
SizeGiant
RarityUncommon
HabitatFound in forest, forest edge, and agricultural land.
Best timeReported across most months in Queensland, with no narrow seasonal peak.

Sounds

Sound sample
0:000:00
Recorded by Ding Li Yong

Range map

Range map

200approx hotspots
7834approx records
7states
Low confidenceMediumHigh confidence

Aggregated occurance data is sourced from 14 different actively-updating datasets including eBird Australia, iNaturalist Australia, BirdLife Australia, and multiple state-based bird surveys through Atlas of Living Australia.

Species notes

Overview

The unmistakable iridescent blue male spreads out its ornamental upper tail feathers when courting females. Females have a shorter tail, an iridescent green neck, and browner plumage. Found in forest, forest edge, and agricultural land. Can be fairly confiding especially when found close to human habitation.

Behavior

Often seen on paths or alertly feeding in the undergrowth. Its loud screaming “may-yow” calls are heard incessantly during the rainy season.

Regional timing

Tasmania
Peak: November1,182 records
New South Wales
Peak: October to January1,562 records
Victoria
Peak: October to January668 records
Queensland
Peak: May to August2,608 records
Western Australia
Peak: October831 records
South Australia
Peak: October to December184 records
Australian Capital Territory
Peak: January370 records
Northern Territory
Peak: May to September408 records

Commonly confused with

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