Phenotypic Characters of Several Type Feathers of Indian Peacock in Sheikh Rashel Aviary and Eco-park, Rangunia, Chittagong

Abstract

The study was carried out from January 2016 to February 2016 on Indian Peafowl under captive rearing condition at Shiekh Rashel Aviary and Eco-park, Rangunia, Chittagong. The objectives of current study were to describe the complete documentation of feathers present in different body parts of peacock (Pavocristatus) including their phenotypic characters. The data was collected from 3 male mature Peacocks and 2 mature Peahens. The average length of crown feather in Peacock and Peahen were 7 cm and 3 cm. Peacock was more attractive in comparison to Peahen for their bright blue neck and his train. The length of neck feather was found higher 5 cm in Peacock but lower in Peahen 3 cm. There was found brownish white barb saddle feather in Peacock and grayish in Peahen. The average length of contour feather was comparatively higher 7.5 cm in Peacock than Peahen 6 cm. The average length of breast feather in case of Peahen was also lower 5 cm than Peacock 7 cm. Average length of flight feather of Peacock was found 35 cm but it was found 30 cm in case of Peahen. The average length of tail feather was greater in case of Peacock, 65 cm compared to Peahen 42.5 cm. A total of 200 tail feather was found in Peacock where as the highest length was recorded 84 cm. Peahen has no train and dull looking due to white belly and most of the feathers are brown color. The causes of variations are not known and open a wide field for scientific research under developmental biology, ecology, ethology and behavioral studies.