A peacock is a bird native to the Asian continent that can also be referred to as a peacock . It belongs to the order of galliformes and, in the case of the male, it can be about 115 centimeters long without taking into account the tail.
It is precisely the males that provide the distinctive characteristic of peacocks. When they are in heat , these animals open their tail like a fan , displaying very attractive designs to attract the attention of the females.
The sexual dimorphism of this species , whose scientific name is Pavo cristatus , is very marked. While males can weigh about six kilograms, females do not usually reach four kilos. The males, on the other hand, have blue feathers on the front part with green on the head, and the females have green plumage on the neck, brown on the chest and white on the underside.
Sexual dimorphism is understood as the set of differences that can be seen between the male and female of a given species. In this framework, external physiognomic issues are taken into account, a group in which we must include coloration, size and shape. Although in some species, such as the peacock, it occurs more markedly, it occurs in the majority.
As a curious fact, the female of most species of amphibians, insects, spiders, birds of prey and reptiles, among others, is larger than the male, while precisely the opposite usually occurs in mammals. In the case of human beings, this difference is common although not decisive.
Regarding behavior , the peacock is polygamous and feeds on amphibians and small reptiles; insects; fruits; seeds; and plants. The females lay between four and eight eggs in each clutch and are responsible for incubating them alone.
Throughout history , humans have attributed various symbolism to the peacock. It is generally linked to knowledge and beauty . Given the eye-like circles that males display when spreading their tail, they are also associated with eternity .
It should be noted that, beyond the positive traits, the peacock is related to vanity . This is due to the aforementioned display of its tail plumage, which allows it to show off its color.
The beauty of birds is not exclusive to the peacock but can be seen in almost all its species, and humans feel a special fascination for them. In addition to its color, its ability to fly and its song are other characteristics of birds that attract our attention. In the case of the peacock, its very particular tail is impossible to ignore.
In India, for example, the peacock has long been the national bird, making it an essential part of its culture . Furthermore, in their religion it represents the animal that Skanda , god of war, rides. Apart from its relationship with the Hindu gods, the peacock is also associated with local deities; For example, it is believed that it has supernatural powers and that it is the living representation of thunder, which it is capable of controlling.
Another of the cultural aspects of India in which the peacock occupies a special place is folk dance, which in certain movements imitates the typical dance of the animal in its reproductive season. The influence of the peacock is also reflected in the outfits worn by the dancers, both in the colors and the ornaments. The tribute is not only paid to his beauty, but also to his fertility, a trait that those who venerate him crave.