Long, shiny feathers, elegant body and distinctive sound. Clumsy flight and exuberace. It does not take the title of this article to know that today we speak about the bird considered by many as the most beautiful: the peacock.
The animal, although not native to Europe, can be seen in breeding grounds or living freely, as in the Gardens of the Crystal Palace. In their direct contact with humans, the peacocks of this garden are quite docile and can be seen in close proximity, being the main protagonists of the photos of those who walk through the place.
The sexual dimorphism of the species is quite pronounced, but many still doubt the males and females of the peacocks. Unlike humans, when we talk about peacocks, the individuals who draw the most attention are the males, especially at the moment when they open their huge feathers, displaying a blue-green plumage. The top feathers of its cover are elongated and ornamented with an eye-like pattern at the end. Many call it a tail, but in fact this lush plumage is formed by the top feathers of the animal's cover. The tail itself is brown and short as the females.
Another myth is that males attract females using their showy plumage. Some studies say that, in fact, the movements and cries of birds are what attract the partners, not the plumage. Interesting, isn’t it? Who wins is us, who can observe scenes as beautiful as these animals living freely. This bird is very coveted for being attractive, besides being usually associated with vanity and power. So it is common to find it also in captivity.
Even though they look peaceful, male peacocks are very territorial and protect females from other animals of the same species. So it is very common to see only one male surrounded by several females.
For those who enjoy majestic plumages and birds that symbolize wealth and prosperity, the Porto City is an ideal place to meet beautiful Indian peacocks and spend afternoons surrounded by these animals, especially in the Gardens of the Crystal Palace.
Written by: Matheus Rabelo
Translated by: Francisca Rehbein
Photos by: Júlia Aguiar
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