The world is home to rare white peacocks, also known as albino peacocks, a stunning variation of the Indian Blue peacock. These majestic birds, known for their stunning white feathers, have captivated people for centuries. Discover their characteristics, habitat, and behavior.
What is a White Peacock?

The albino peacock and white peacock are two distinct species of peacock, each with unique genetic mutations that result in predominantly white plumage. The white peacock’s feathers lack pigmentation, resulting in a pure white coloration, unlike their more common counterparts. The albino peacock is a unique breed, with white peacock feathers and eyes, making it a distinctive and unique bird.
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what does a white peacock look like

The white peacock, a bird with a unique appearance compared to the Indian Blue Peafowl, is a beautiful and striking bird. Its long, elegant tail feathers, covered in distinct eye-shaped patterns, are a striking feature. Similar to the albino peacock, white peacocks 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 light grey. Male white peafowl, known as peacocks, are larger than females, known as peahens, and have longer, more elaborate tail feathers, which are used during courtship displays to attract potential mates. The white peacock is a popular choice for display and decoration in many settings, with its pure white feathers and bright blue eyes making it a true standout.
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What Causes White Peacocks?
The albino peacock, a white bird, is a result of a genetic mutation that affects the production of melanin in its feathers. This mutation is carried by both parents and is 25% chance that offspring will inherit it. Some white peacocks may have patches of color or blue eyes, which are also a result of this genetic mutation. The albino peacock is a popular choice for its white feathers and unique appearance.
White Peacock Characteristics
White peacocks, also known as albino peacocks, are characterized by their predominantly white plumage, black and blue feathers around their necks and eyes, and iridescent blue or green feathers towards the ends. Male white peacocks have colorful tails, used to attract potential mates during courtship displays. Both white peacocks and albino peahens are known for their distinctive feathers and colorful eyes.
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, also known as albino peacocks, are renowned for their impressive courtship displays. These displays attract potential mates by fanning out their tails and making vocalizations. The female peacock chooses the male with the most impressive display as her mate. White peacocks are social birds, often found in small groups or flocks during non-breeding seasons. Although generally peaceful, males can become aggressive during breeding season if they feel threatened or 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
The white peacock, a genetic variant of the Indian Blue Peafowl, is characterized by its white feathers, including its long tail feathers. This white coloration is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the production of pigments in the bird’s feathers. The white peacock is a normal peafowl, while the albino peacock is a rare bird with a genetic condition that prevents it from producing any pigment at all, resulting in a completely white bird with pink eyes. Both types of birds have white feathers, but their appearances are distinct.
The peacock bird, a white peacock, is a symbol of the peacock bird’s uniqueness and beauty, while the albino peacock is a rare bird with a completely white bird with pink eyes.
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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
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 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.
FAQs
Are white peacocks rare?
Yes, white peacocks are considered rare, as they are a genetic mutation of the more common blue peacock.
Can white peacocks fly?
Yes, white peacocks are able to fly, but they are not as strong fliers as some other bird species.
How long do white peacocks live?
White peacocks can live up to 20 years in captivity with proper care and nutrition.
Can white peacocks breed with blue peacocks?
Yes, white peacocks can breed with blue peacocks, and the offspring may exhibit a combination of white and blue feathers.
How much does a white peacock cost?
The cost of a white peacock can vary depending on the breeder and location, but they are generally more expensive than blue peacocks. Prices can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
References
“Peafowl.” The Livestock Conservancy. Retrieved from https://livestockconservancy.org/index.php/heritage/internal/peafowl
“Peacock Care.” Backyard Chickens. Retrieved from https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/peacock-care.47738/
“Peacocks as Pets.” PetMD. Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com/bird/care/evr_bd_peacock_care
“White Peacock.” San Diego Zoo Animals & Plants. Retrieved from https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/white-peacock
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