White Peacock or Albino Peacock – Sensational White Peacocks Facts and Pictures

YasminMay 5, 2023May 5, 2023026 mins

White peacocks, also known as albino peacocks, are a stunning and rare variation of the more commonly known Indian Blue peacocks. These birds have captivated people with their unique beauty for centuries. White peacocks are a rare and beautiful variant of the Indian Blue Peacock. They are known for their stunning white feathers, which make them one of the most captivating and majestic birds in the world. In this article, we will delve into the world of white peacocks, learning about their characteristics, habitat, and behavior, as well as exploring some of the most fascinating facts and pictures about these magnificent creatures.

What is a White Peacock?

A white peacock is a genetic mutation of the Indian Blue Peacock, also known as the Common Peacock. Unlike their more common counterparts, white peacocks have a predominantly white plumage, which is due to a genetic mutation that affects the production of melanin in their feathers. This mutation causes their feathers to lack pigmentation, resulting in a pure white coloration.

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what does a white peacock look like

A white peacock is a beautiful and striking bird that has a unique appearance compared to its more common counterpart, the Indian Blue Peafowl. White peafowl have completely white feathers, including their long, elegant tail feathers, which are typically covered in distinct, eye-shaped patterns in the Indian Blue Peafowl.

Like Indian Blue Peafowl, white peafowl have a characteristic crest of feathers on their head, which can be raised and lowered to communicate mood and intention. They also have bright blue eyes, and their feet and beaks are a light grey color.

Male white peafowl, known as peacocks, are larger than females, known as peahens, and have longer and more elaborate tail feathers. These tail feathers are used during courtship displays to attract potential mates and can reach up to 5 feet in length.

Overall, the white peacock is a truly stunning bird with a unique and striking appearance that sets it apart from other birds. Its pure white feathers and bright blue eyes make it a true standout, and it is a popular choice for display and decoration in many settings.

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What Causes White Peacocks?

White peacocks are the result of a genetic mutation that affects the production of melanin in their feathers. This mutation is caused by a recessive gene that is carried by both parents. When two peacocks carrying this gene breed, there is a 25% chance that their offspring will inherit it, resulting in a white peacock. It is worth noting that not all white peacocks are completely white – some may have patches of color or blue eyes, which are also the result of this genetic mutation.

White Peacock Characteristics

White peacocks have a predominantly white plumage, with some black and blue feathers around their necks and eyes. Their wings and tails are also white, with some iridescent blue or green feathers towards the ends. Unlike their female counterparts, male white peacocks have long and colorful tails, which they use to attract potential mates during courtship displays.

Habitat and Distribution

White peacocks are a rare and unusual sight in the wild, as they are mainly bred in captivity for their unique beauty. However, their wild counterparts, the Indian Blue Peacock, can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas, throughout the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa.

Diet and Feeding Habits

White peacocks, like their Indian Blue Peacock relatives, are omnivores and have a varied diet. They feed on insects, small rodents, snakes, and lizards, as well as fruits, berries, and seeds. They use their strong beaks to crack open hard shells and their long tongues to extract nectar from flowers.

Behavior and Socialization

White peacocks are known for their impressive and elaborate courtship displays, which they use to attract potential mates. During these displays, males will fan out their tails and strut around while making a series of calls and vocalizations. The female peacock will then choose the male with the most impressive display as her mate.

White peacocks are also social birds and can often be found in small groups or flocks, particularly during the non-breeding season. They are generally peaceful birds, but males can become aggressive during breeding season, particularly if they feel threatened or if they are competing for a mate.

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White Peacock Courtship and Reproduction

White peacocks breed between February and June, with courtship displays peaking between March and April. During courtship, males will spread their tails and perform a series of calls and displays to attract potential mates. The female will then choose the male with the most impressive display as her mate.

After mating, the female will lay between 3 to 5 eggs in a shallow nest on the ground. The eggs are incubated for around a month before hatching, and the chicks are born with a yellowish-brown down that eventually grows into their adult plumage.

White Peacock vs. Albino Peacock

There is often confusion between the terms “white peacock” and “albino peacock.” While both types of birds have white feathers, they are actually quite different.

A white peacock is a genetic variant of the Indian Blue Peafowl and has white feathers all over its body, including its long tail feathers. The white coloration is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the production of pigments in the bird’s feathers, but otherwise, the white peacock is a normal peafowl.

On the other hand, an albino peacock has a genetic condition that prevents it from producing any pigment at all, resulting in a completely white bird with pink eyes. Albino peafowl are extremely rare and have a distinctly different appearance from white peafowl.

In summary, a white peacock is a genetic variant of the Indian Blue Peafowl that has white feathers, while an albino peacock is a bird with a genetic condition that results in a complete absence of pigmentation.

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Interesting White Peacock Facts

White peacocks are considered to be a symbol of purity, peace, and love in many cultures.
White peacock feathers are considered to be more valuable than those of their blue counterparts, and are often used in traditional clothing and textiles.
White peacocks are often kept in zoos and aviaries around the world, and are also popular as ornamental birds in private collections.
The Guinness World Record for the largest display of peacock feathers is held by a group of Indian farmers who gathered 200,000 feathers from their peafowl.
The term “peacock” is actually used to refer to the male of the species, while the females are known as “peahens”.

Pictures of White Peacocks

Keeping White Peacocks as Pets

White peacocks can be kept as pets, but they require special care and attention. Here are some important things to consider before getting a white peacock as a pet:

Space: White peacocks need a lot of space to roam and fly. They are not suited to small enclosures or cages, so a large outdoor aviary or pen is recommended.
Diet: White peacocks need a balanced diet that includes protein, vitamins, and minerals. They can be fed a commercial game bird feed, but it should be supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and insects.
Climate: White peacocks are hardy birds, but they are sensitive to extreme temperatures. They need access to shade and shelter during hot weather and a heated shelter during cold weather.
Socialization: White peacocks are social birds and do best when they have a mate or a small flock. They also enjoy interacting with humans, so regular interaction and handling is important.
Maintenance: White peacocks require regular maintenance, including grooming, nail trimming, and wing clipping. They also need regular veterinary care to prevent and treat illnesses and injuries.

While white peacocks can make unique and beautiful pets, they are not recommended for everyone. They require a lot of time, effort, and resources to care for properly. If you are considering getting a white peacock as a pet, be sure to do your research and consult with a veterinarian and experienced bird owner before making a decision.

what is a white peacock called

A white peacock is simply a color variation of the Indian Blue Peafowl and is still called a peafowl. However, specifically, a male white peafowl is called a “white peacock” or “peacock,” while a female white peafowl is called a “white peahen” or “peahen.” The term “peacock” is often used to refer to both males and females of the species, but technically, it only refers to the male.

what is a white peacock called

Keeping White Peacocks as Pets

White peacocks can be kept as pets, but they require special care and attention. Here are some important things to consider before getting a white peacock as a pet:

Space: White peacocks need a lot of space to roam and fly. They are not suited to small enclosures or cages, so a large outdoor aviary or pen is recommended.
Diet: White peacocks need a balanced diet that includes protein, vitamins, and minerals. They can be fed a commercial game bird feed, but it should be supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and insects.
Climate: White peacocks are hardy birds, but they are sensitive to extreme temperatures. They need access to shade and shelter during hot weather and a heated shelter during cold weather.
Socialization: White peacocks are social birds and do best when they have a mate or a small flock. They also enjoy interacting with humans, so regular interaction and handling is important.
Maintenance: White peacocks require regular maintenance, including grooming, nail trimming, and wing clipping. They also need regular veterinary care to prevent and treat illnesses and injuries.

What Does a White Peacock Symbolize?

In many cultures, peacocks, including white peacocks, are considered symbols of beauty, grace, and abundance. They are often associated with royalty, nobility, and power, and are frequently featured in art and literature.

In Hinduism, the peacock is considered a sacred bird and is associated with the deity Lord Krishna. In this tradition, the peacock’s feathers symbolize immortality and represent the heavens and the eyes of the stars.

In Christianity, the peacock is a symbol of the Resurrection and is associated with the concept of eternal life. The bird’s ability to shed its feathers and grow new ones each year is seen as a metaphor for the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.

In other cultures, the peacock’s beauty and elegance are celebrated, and the bird is often depicted as a symbol of luxury, prosperity, and good fortune.

As for white peacocks specifically, they are often seen as a symbol of purity, innocence, and divinity. Their striking appearance and unique coloration make them a popular choice for weddings and other special events, where they are often used as a symbol of love and new beginnings.

Overall, the white peacock is a powerful and symbolic creature that has captured the imaginations of people around the world for centuries. Whether seen as a symbol of spirituality, beauty, or prosperity, the white peacock remains a captivating and awe-inspiring animal that continues to fascinate and inspire.

How Much are White Peacocks?

The price of a white peacock can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the age, gender, and quality of the bird. In general, white peacocks can be quite expensive compared to other types of birds.

For example, a mature male white peacock that is in excellent health and has a full tail display can cost anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars. Female white peafowl, also known as peahens, are usually less expensive than males, and their prices can range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars.

White peafowl chicks are also available for purchase, and their prices can range from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on their age and quality.

It’s important to note that purchasing a white peacock requires a lot of responsibility and commitment, as they require special care and attention to thrive. They need a balanced diet, access to clean water, and a spacious and secure enclosure. Regular veterinary care is also necessary to ensure their health and well-being.

In addition, it’s important to purchase white peafowl from reputable breeders or sellers to ensure the quality and health of the birds. While white peafowl can be a beautiful and unique addition to a collection, the decision to purchase one should be made carefully and with consideration of the responsibility and costs involved.

Conservation and Threats

White peacocks are not considered a threatened species, as they are mainly bred in captivity for their unique beauty. However, their wild counterparts, the Indian Blue Peacock, are listed as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). They face a range of threats in the wild, including habitat loss, hunting, and poaching for their feathers.