What is Pavo or Peaock?
Classification:
Phylum Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Galliformes
Genus: Pavo.
Habitat: It is a terrestrial game bird found in the forest as well as in the fields. It is commonly called peacock, more, mayor. It is the national bird of India.Pavo is a genus of two species in the pheasant family. The two species, along with the Congo peacock, are known as peafowl.
Habits :
(i) It shows diurnal activity.
(ii) It is a slow flier. Feet are adapted for running.
(iii) It is an omnivorous bird and feeds on grains as well as insects and reptiles. Feet are used for locating food.
(iv) Sexes are dioecious and show sexual dimorphism. Male is with a crest on head, brightly-coloured breast. Long oscillated tail feathers and a bony spur on legs. Male is polygamous and shows a peculiar dance during breeding season. Fertilization is internal. Female is oviparous and lays 3-5 eggs. Only the female incubates the eggs. Development is direct.
External characters:
(i) Body is bright-colour in peacock and dull coloured in peahen. Body is divisible in to head, neck, trunk and tail.
(ii) Head bears eyes, nostrils and mouth bounded by strong
and crawled beak. Male has a crest on head.
(iii) Wings are less developed.
(iv) Tail feathers are long oscillated and erectile.
Economic importance: It is the national bird of India.
