Peacocks are unbelievably rare and lovely birds. Unlike their more familiar colors, blue and green, these birds also have vibrant shades of purple in their feathers. So, yes! There are purple peacocks. It makes them truly unique. The feathers on these birds shine in the sunlight. And it creates a beautiful array of colors that captivate the eye. Peacocks are known for their graceful dances and beautiful tail feathers, which they use to attract mates.
Moreover, Peacocks are known for their stunning beauty, especially males. But let’s talk about purple peacocks. These are not naturally occurring in nature. They result from selective breeding and genetic manipulation to produce the unique purple hue. These magnificent birds are a rare and captivating sight.
So, with that said, let’s explore what purple peacocks are. We will give you an overview of purple peacocks. It will include interesting facts, appearance, and symbolism. Also, you can discover the answers to related questions. So, stay tuned and clarify all your doubts about purple peacocks.
Are Purple Peacocks Real?
Yes, Purple peacocks are real, but still, they are not naturally occurring. That’s the reason you will not see purple peacocks in the wild. The first purple peacock was born in Arizona in 1987 by a genetic mutation of the Indian peafowl. A black-shouldered peahen hatched the first purple peafowl. However, genetic evolution occurs one in a million, making them extremely rare.
Where Do Purple Peacocks Come From?
Purple peacocks come from selective breeding practices among peafowl breeders. The Indian blue peafowl is usually used as a base for producing this unique color variation, and breeders manipulate genes to develop the purple plumage that sets these birds apart.
Is Purple Peacock Rare?
Purple peacocks are extremely rare birds. They come from a genetic mutation in Indian peafowls. So, this process happens only once in a million times. Two main reasons make purple peacocks so rare.
- Firstly, the purple trait is hidden in their genes and becomes visible when both parents have it.
- Secondly, even if two purple peacock mates, their babies might not be purple due to the unstable environment of the mutation.
So, that’s the reason they make them unique and rare.
Where Can You Find Purple Peacocks?
Purple peacocks are rare to find in the wild. So, you’ll need to look for them at private breeders, aviaries, or different animal farms. Maybe some zoos and wildlife have these fascinating birds. Remember that because they come from due to selective breeding, you may not easily find certain types of peafowl as other varieties.
Appearance of Purple Peacocks
Purple peacocks have a striking appearance. They are a genetic mutation of the Indian blue peacock (Pavo Cristatus). It produces a purple instead of a greenish-blue sheen on the feathers. So, male Purple Peafowl have purple or purplish-blue neck and breast feathers. The scale-patterned feathers on the back and seat are a dark blue-green rather than the green-yellow color of the blue peacock. The train has almost none of the yellow or bronze-red tones of the blue peacock. Instead, it is mostly greenish blue with purple overtones and sheen.
Additionally, if you focus on the color of the eye feathers, a purple peacock will be a dark green-blue with a purple center. The eye feather of an Indian blue peacock would be mostly yellow-green with a reddish-orange and bright blue center. Purple Peahens are lighter in color than blue Peahens, almost a brownish-orange color. Also, the colored feathers around the neck have a definite purple iridescence rather than a green.
Food Peacocks Purple Eat
Peacocks usually eat both plants and animals. Most of the peacock species eat a huge variety of meat, fruit, vegetables, seeds, and more! When you pet a bird or animal, their food will differ from what they find and eat in the wild. But they need a high-protein diet to maintain their gorgeous feathers. They can hunt small animals, such as rodents and lizards, in the wild. It is to maintain their high protein requirements. Their diet is diverse and adaptable to their natural surroundings. Peacocks purple eat the same food as other peacocks eat.
Facts About Purple Peacocks
If there’s one thing, we all agree on, it’s the fact that peacocks are one of the most majestic birds in the world. So, here are some fun facts about purple peacocks.
- Peacocks are not inbred with their fancy tail feathers. It takes years to develop until they start growing their showy trains when they are about three years old.
- Peacock feathers are covered in tiny crystal-like structures. These structures produce a shining visual effect known as structural coloration.
- Peacocks naturally drop their beautiful feathers each year after mating. It allows people to collect and sell them without harming the birds.
- Purple peafowl are known for their distinctive calls, which are louder and more high-pitched than the calls of blue peafowl.
- The average lifespan of a purple peacock is about 15 to 25 years.
- Peacocks are larger and more brightly colored than peahens and have longer tails. The tail feathers can reach up to six feet in length!
Peacocks are an endangered species due to habitat loss and hunting.
Purple Peacock Symbolism
Many cultures throughout history have admired peacocks, and are often associated with beauty, pride, and spirituality. Purple peacock symbolism is similar to the blue peacock but has subtle differences. They are a symbol of royalty, wealth, passion, and luxury. Also, purple peacocks are linked with new beginnings, growth, and prosperity.
In some cultures, the purple peacock is seen as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Additionally, the unique colors of the purple peacock’s feathers make it a sign of good luck and prosperity.
Conservation Status
Just like other peafowl, purple peacocks are in danger in their natural environment due to environmental loss caused by deforestation and hunting for their feathers and meat. This classification shows that peacocks were not considered to be at immediate risk of loss. This is primarily due to their wide distribution across South Asia and relatively stable populations.
However, it’s important to note that the conservation status of any species can change over time due to many factors like habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. Various conservation organizations are working to protect peacock habitats and raise awareness about preserving these stunning birds.
Unusual Aspect
One of the most unusual aspects of the Purple Peafowl is that their feathers fade during the year. With each molt and new growth of feathers, the feathers are all initially brilliantly and brightly colored. But as the season progresses, the colors fade and look like an old piece of lace with just a shimmer of the colors of the early part of the season. It is interesting to think of this color change as keeping the bird always in contrast to its environment. The brilliant colors stand out in winter and early spring against the drab surroundings. But in late spring and early summer, the faded, light, tawny colors stand out against the lush garden environment.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, I would say that purple peacocks are not found easily in nature. However, purple peacocks are one of the most beautiful subspecies of Indian peafowls. Their symbolism and appearance have made them adorable birds. These stunning birds are only bred in captivity. Their bright color and regal appearance make them fascinating creatures. And it makes them beloved birds worldwide.
FAQs
Q: Can you keep purple peacocks as pets?
Ans: Yes! You can keep Purple peacocks as pets. But they need much space and specialized care.
Q: Do purple peacocks fly?
Ans: Yes, purple peacocks can fly like other peacocks. But they are not good fliers and can only fly short distances.
Q: Can You Breed a Purple Peafowl?
Ans: Yes, you can breed a purple peafowl! But it takes careful planning, genetic understanding, and selective breeding techniques.