Rare White Peacock

• 22 Nov 2024

Source: TH 

Recently, a rare leucistic peacock with white feathers was rescued in Coimbatore. 

• The peacock’s white feathers are due to leucism, a genetic condition that prevents melanin and other pigments from being deposited on feathers at normal levels which has resulted in dark eyes, pink bill, and feet of peacock.  
  • White Peacock is not a different species of peacock. 
• Leucism: Leucism is a genetic condition that results in partial loss of pigmentation in animals, leading to white, pale, or patchy coloration while retaining normal eye colour. 
  • It is different from albinism, which involves a complete lack of melanin and often results in red or pink eyes. 
  • Melanin is a natural pigment that colours skin, hair, and eyes, and shields them from Ultra Violet (UV) damage. 
• Peacock: 
  • Peafowl is the collective term for peacocks, with the male called a peacock and the female a peahen. 
  • The Indian peacock (Pavo cristatus) is  the National Bird of India, belongs to the Phasianidae family. 
    • This family also includes pheasants, quails, partridges, and jungle fowl. 
  • Species of Peafowl: 
    • Indian (Blue) Peacock: Native to India and Sri Lanka. 
    • Green (Javanese) Peacock: Found from Myanmar to Java. 
  • Protection Status: 
    • IUCN: Listed as Least Concern. 
    • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I

Read more: Indian Peafowl