Page 4 - Best Of Local Moreton Bay Magazine Nov24

Resident Peacocks Mingle with

Locals in Mango Hill

There is a resident peacock population living amongst us, and Like chickens, these birds are omnivorous and consume a diet of
some of us have become accustomed to their regular visits. grains, fruits, small insects, and occasionally small reptiles. People
Locals, taking their afternoon walk along Park Vista Drive were who feed peacocks should be cautious as they can become
surprised to encounter this male peacock, poking around dependent on handouts, which may disrupt their natural diet.
front lawns, several hundred metres from the bushland where Feeding peafowl too much processed human food, like bread,
the family are likely nesting. can lead to malnutrition and health issues. If feeding, it’s best
to offer grains, vegetables, or fruits, avoiding salty, sugary, or
In Australia, peacocks aren’t native but have been introduced processed foods. Peacocks are known to be quite assertive, so
over the years. They’re often kept on large properties, parks, it’s wise to keep a respectful distance and avoid encouraging
or farms, and can sometimes be seen wandering in suburbia, them to become overly tame or aggressive.
especially in semi-rural areas. Peacocks have been known to
escape captivity and establish small populations in local areas. Send your local wildlife pictures to
Their striking appearance and distinctive calls make them moretonbay@bestoflocal.com.au
noticeable, though they tend to wander close to where food is for a chance to be featured in the magazine.
available.

Known scientifically as *Pavo cristatus*, peacocks are iconic
birds originally native to South Asia, particularly India and Sri
Lanka. The word “peacock” comes from Middle English “pea” (or
“peafowl”) and “cock,” meaning male bird. Technically, “peacock”
refers only to the males, while females are called “peahens,” and
both sexes are collectively known as peafowl.

Peacocks are famous for their courtship display, where males
fan out their spectacular tail feathers to attract females. This
display showcases iridescent blues and greens, often with eye-
like patterns. During the breeding season, typically in spring,
peahens lay 3-5 eggs in shallow ground nests, and males engage
in elaborate displays to win a mate.