Characteristics of the Black Peacock and How to Breed It in Captivity

The black peacock usually refers to the black-shouldered color variant of the Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus), and some people simply call it the black-shouldered peacock; it is not a separate species. It belongs to the same species as the common Indian peafowl, but a change in the gene controlling feather color makes the wing and back coverts of the male a deep blackish brown, so that from a distance the whole bird looks black. The feathers on the neck and breast still carry a blue-green metallic sheen that is very striking in sunlight. Many people wonder whether a black peacock can fan its tail, and the answer is yes. In the breeding season the male black peacock likewise grows splendid upper tail coverts, and when it displays, the train is set with eye-shaped spots, though the overall tone is deeper than that of the Indian peafowl, giving it a distinctive ornamental effect. The female's plumage is relatively dull and she lacks the long upper tail coverts, so she cannot fan her tail. As for breeding, the black peacock is a special rare bird, and before keeping it you need to complete the relevant captive breeding and propagation procedures as required and obtain a permit before introducing stock. It is omnivorous, and in daily feeding you can give it grains and legumes together with green fodder, and also supplement it appropriately with insect protein. The enclosure should be spacious and dry, with perches and a rainproof shelter, bedding on the floor and regular disinfection; during the chick stage you must pay special attention to keeping them warm. At present the black peacock is mainly kept as an ornamental bird, commonly seen in zoos, ecological parks and rural tourism attractions, and it can also be raised for courtyard landscaping. Because its feather color is rare, it attracts a good deal of attention in the special breeding industry, but before introducing stock you should first learn about local policies and market conditions and act within your means.