Graceful Turn

Featured animal:  Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus)

Photo credit: Own composition

Location:  India

The peacock has the most elaborate tail of all birds. These tail feathers, or coverts, spread out in a distinctive train that is more than 60 percent of the bird’s total body length and boast colorful “eye” markings. The large train is used in mating rituals and courtship displays.

The most fit peacocks can carry these heavy feathers and lift them up in a display to entice the females. The Indian peacock has iridescent blue and green plumage, mostly metallic blue and green. In this painting, I have chosen to paint the moment a male turns and how his feathers follow in his wake. When you observe these birds, you will notice that these tail feathers that we admire so much are a liability for the males except during courtship. Still, they are definitely the most beautiful and exciting birds to watch.