By Peafowl, commonly known as peacocks, are distinct birds known for their vibrant plumage and impressive display. However, several other bird species share similarities in appearance with peacocks. One such bird is the Indian Peafowl (scientific name: Pavo cristatus), which is the species most commonly referred to as the peacock.
Additionally, several pheasant species, such as the Green Peafowl (Pavo muticus) and the Congo Peafowl (Afropavo congensis), share similar features like colorful plumage and elongated tail feathers, albeit with some differences in coloration and size. These birds are often admired for their striking beauty and are found in various parts of the world, captivating observers with their ornate displays and graceful movements.
22 Birds That Look Like Peacocks
Indian Peafowl
Scientific name: Pavo cristatus.
Weight: The weight of an Indian Peafowl typically ranges from about 4 to 6 kilograms (8.8 to 13.2 pounds) for males, and 2 to 4 kilograms (4.4 to 8.8 pounds) for females.
Lifespan: The lifespan of an Indian Peafowl in the wild is typically around 10 to 25 years. However, in captivity, they can live longer, with some individuals reaching up to 50 years.
The Indian Peafowl, also known as the peacock, is a stunningly beautiful bird native to the Indian subcontinent. Renowned for its iridescent plumage and extravagant tail feathers, the male peacock displays vibrant hues of blue, green, and bronze during courtship displays to attract females. In contrast, the female, known as a peahen, features a more subdued brown plumage, which provides camouflage in their natural habitat.
Indian Peafowls are often found in forests, agricultural lands, and urban areas, where they feed on seeds, insects, fruits, and small reptiles. Revered in Indian culture for centuries, these iconic birds continue to captivate people worldwide with their striking appearance and distinctive calls.
Green Peafowl
Scientific Name: Pavo muticus.
Weight: The Green Peafowl typically weighs between 4 to 6 kilograms (8.8 to 13.2 pounds). However, males tend to be heavier than females.
Lifespan: The lifespan of Green Peafowls in the wild is estimated to be around 15 to 20 years, while those in captivity can live up to 25 years or more with proper care.
The Green Peafowl, scientifically known as Pavo muticus, is a majestic bird species native to Southeast Asia. Renowned for its vibrant plumage and elongated tail feathers, the male Green Peafowl boasts iridescent green and blue hues, while the female displays a more understated brownish coloration. Unlike its more famous counterpart, the Indian Peafowl, the Green Peafowl prefers forested habitats, including rainforests, grasslands, and marshes.
Unfortunately, the species faces numerous threats, including habitat loss, hunting, and capture for the illegal pet trade. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and preserve populations of this stunning bird, ensuring future generations can continue to admire its beauty in the wild.
Congo Peafowl
Scientific Name: Afropavo congensis
Weight: The Congo Peafowl typically weighs between 2.7 to 3.5 kilograms (6 to 7.7 pounds) for males and slightly less for females.
Lifespan: The lifespan of Congo Peafowls in the wild is estimated to be around 10 to 15 years, while those in captivity can live up to 20 years or more with proper care.
The Congo Peafowl, scientifically known as Afropavo congensis, is a unique and lesser-known member of the peafowl family. Endemic to the dense rainforests of the Congo Basin in Central Africa, this bird species is distinguished by its striking appearance, featuring iridescent blue plumage and a distinctive crest atop its head.
Unlike its more famous relatives, the Indian and Green Peafowls, the Congo Peafowl is relatively smaller in size and more elusive in its behaviour.
Due to its restricted range and habitat loss caused by deforestation and human encroachment, the Congo Peafowl is considered vulnerable to extinction.
Royal Flycatcher
Scientific Name: Onychorhynchus coronatus.
Weight: The Royal Flycatcher typically weighs between 9 to 12 grams (0.3 to 0.4 ounces).
Lifespan: The lifespan of Royal Flycatchers in the wild is typically around 5 to 10 years.
The Royal Flycatcher, scientifically known as Onychorhynchus coronatus, is a striking bird species found in Central and South America. Known for its unique and elaborate crest, which it can erect when agitated or during courtship displays, this flycatcher species is renowned for its remarkable appearance.
The crest consists of brilliant orange, red, and yellow feathers bordered by black, creating a stunning spectacle. Beyond its ornate plumage, the Royal Flycatcher is also recognized for its agile hunting skills, adeptly capturing insects in mid-air.
Despite its striking appearance and fascinating behaviour, the Royal Flycatcher faces threats from habitat loss and fragmentation, emphasising the importance of conservation efforts to ensure its survival in the wild.
Golden Pheasant
Scientific Name: Chrysolophus pictus
Weight: The weight of a male Golden Pheasant typically ranges from 600 to 900 grams (1.3 to 2.0 pounds), while females are generally lighter, weighing between 450 to 600 grams (1.0 to 1.3 pounds).
Lifespan: In the wild, Golden Pheasants typically have a lifespan of around 5 to 6 years. However, in captivity, they can live longer, with some individuals reaching up to 15 years or more with proper care.
The Golden Pheasant, also known as the Chinese Pheasant or “Chrysolophus pictus,” is a brilliantly coloured bird native to mountainous regions of western China. Renowned for its striking plumage, the male Golden Pheasant boasts vibrant hues of red, orange, yellow, and green, while the female exhibits more subdued brown and grey tones for camouflage.
Both sexes feature long, ornate tails adorned with distinctive markings. Beyond its stunning appearance, the Golden Pheasant is prized for its role in ornamental aviaries and as a symbol of beauty and prosperity in Chinese culture. However, habitat loss and hunting pressure pose significant threats to wild populations, necessitating conservation efforts to safeguard this iconic species.
Lady Amherst’s Pheasant
Scientific Name: Chrysolophus amherstiae
Weight: Lady Amherst’s Pheasant typically weighs between 800 to 1200 grams (1.8 to 2.6 pounds) for males, and around 600 to 800 grams (1.3 to 1.8 pounds) for females.
Lifespan: In the wild, Lady Amherst’s Pheasants typically have a lifespan of around 6 to 8 years. In captivity, they can live longer, with some individuals reaching up to 15 years or more with proper care.
Lady Amherst’s Pheasant, scientifically named “Chrysolophus amherstiae,” is a species native to southwestern China and Myanmar. Named after Sarah Amherst, wife of an English nobleman who collected specimens during the early 19th century, this bird is known for its extravagant plumage.
The male features iridescent blue and green markings on its head and neck, while the rest of its body is adorned with bold black and white patterning. In contrast, the female exhibits more muted colours for camouflage.
Lady Amherst’s Pheasant is often kept in captivity for ornamental purposes due to its striking appearance, but it also faces threats from habitat loss and hunting in the wild.
Himalayan Monal
Scientific Name: Lophophorus impejanus
Weight: The Himalayan Monal typically weighs between 1.5 to 2.1 kilograms (3.3 to 4.6 pounds) for males, and around 0.9 to 1.1 kilograms (2.0 to 2.4 pounds) for females.
Lifespan: In the wild, the lifespan of Himalayan Monals is typically around 5 to 7 years. However, in captivity, they may live longer, with some individuals reaching up to 10 years or more with proper care.
The Himalayan Monal, scientifically known as “Lophophorus impejanus,” is a strikingly colourful bird native to the Himalayan regions of India, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, and Tibet.
Renowned for its vibrant plumage, the male boasts iridescent blue-green feathers on its head, neck, and chest, complemented by coppery orange back feathers and a prominent white rump. Females, on the other hand, exhibit more muted shades of brown and grey for camouflage.
Himalayan Monals inhabit alpine forests and scrublands, where they feed on a diet of berries, seeds, and insects. Unfortunately, habitat loss and hunting pose significant threats to their population.
Resplendent Quetzal
Scientific Name: Pharomachrus mocinno
Weight: The Resplendent Quetzal typically weighs between 210 to 250 grams (7.4 to 8.8 ounces).
Lifespan: In the wild, the Resplendent Quetzal typically has a lifespan of around 6 to 10 years. However, in captivity, they may live longer, with some individuals reaching up to 20 years or more with proper care.
The Resplendent Quetzal, known scientifically as “Pharomachrus mocinno,” is a breathtaking bird found in the cloud forests of Central America, including Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Panama. Renowned for its stunning iridescent green plumage and long, trailing tail feathers, the Resplendent Quetzal is considered one of the most beautiful birds in the world.
Revered by ancient Mesoamerican cultures like the Maya and Aztecs, it holds symbolic significance as a representation of freedom and divinity. Despite its striking appearance, the Resplendent Quetzal faces threats from habitat loss and fragmentation.
Blue Bird-of-Paradise
Scientific Name: Paradisaea rudolphi.
Weight: The Blue Bird-of-Paradise typically weighs around 170 to 220 grams (6.0 to 7.8 ounces).
Lifespan: The lifespan of the Blue Bird-of-Paradise in the wild is not precisely documented, but it’s estimated to be around 5 to 8 years. In captivity, they may live longer, potentially reaching up to 15 years or more with proper care.
The Blue Bird-of-Paradise, scientifically known as “Paradisaea rudolphi,” is a stunning bird endemic to Papua New Guinea. It is famed for its vibrant blue plumage, adorned with iridescent hues that shimmer in the sunlight. Males boast elongated tail feathers with distinctively shaped plumes, which they use to perform elaborate courtship displays to attract females.
Found primarily in the mountainous rainforests of the island nation, the Blue Bird-of-Paradise is an elusive and rare sight. Unfortunately, habitat destruction and hunting pose significant threats to its population.
Wilson’s Bird-of-Paradise
Scientific Name: Cicinnurus respublica.
Weight: Wilson’s Bird-of-Paradise typically weighs around 50 to 60 grams (1.8 to 2.1 ounces).
Lifespan: The exact lifespan of Wilson’s Bird-of-Paradise is not well-documented, but in the wild, it is estimated to be around 5 to 8 years. In captivity, they may live longer, potentially reaching up to 10 years or more with proper care.
Wilson’s Bird-of-Paradise, scientifically termed “Cicinnurus respublica,” is a small, striking bird native to Indonesia. Renowned for its vibrant plumage and intricate courtship displays, this species inhabits the lowland rainforests of Waigeo and Batanta islands in West Papua.
The male boasts brilliant colours, including bright blue and green hues, contrasted by a striking red breast shield and two long tail wires. Females, on the other hand, are more subdued with olive-brown plumage.
Habitat loss due to deforestation and illegal trapping for the pet trade threaten the Wilson’s Bird-of-Paradise population. Conservation efforts, including habitat protection and community engagement, are crucial to safeguard this species from extinction.
Greater Bird-of-Paradise
Scientific Name: Paradisaea apoda.
Weight: The Greater Bird-of-Paradise typically weighs between 250 to 430 grams (8.8 to 15.2 ounces).
Lifespan: The lifespan of the Greater Bird-of-Paradise in the wild is estimated to be around 5 to 8 years. However, in captivity, they may live longer, potentially reaching up to 10 years or more with proper care.
The Greater Bird-of-Paradise, scientifically known as “Paradisaea apoda,” is an iconic bird species found in the rainforests of New Guinea and surrounding islands. Males are renowned for their spectacular plumage, featuring iridescent green and yellow colours, elongated flank plumes, and a distinctive blue-green crown. During courtship displays, males perform intricate dances to attract females.
Females, in contrast, have brown plumage with buff-coloured underparts. Habitat loss and hunting for their plumage pose significant threats to Greater Bird-of-Paradise populations. Conservation efforts, including habitat protection and community engagement, are essential to preserve this species and its rich cultural significance in indigenous communities.
Victoria Crowned Pigeon
Scientific Name: Goura victoria.
Weight: The Victoria Crowned Pigeon is one of the largest pigeon species, typically weighing between 2.5 to 3.5 kilograms (5.5 to 7.7 pounds).
Lifespan: The Victoria Crowned Pigeon typically has a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years in the wild. However, in captivity, they may live longer, with some individuals reaching up to 25 years or more with proper care.
The Victoria Crowned Pigeon, scientifically named “Goura victoria,” is a striking bird species native to the rainforests of New Guinea and surrounding islands. Known for its regal appearance, it is the largest species of pigeon, with vibrant blue feathers, a distinctive fan-shaped crest, and red irises.
These pigeons inhabit dense lowland forests, where they forage for seeds, fruits, and insects on the forest floor. Despite their large size, they are capable of agile flight, often taking to the trees to roost and escape predators. Habitat loss and hunting for their meat and plumes threaten the Victoria Crowned Pigeon’s survival, prompting conservation efforts to protect their remaining forest habitats.
Palawan Peacock-Pheasant
Scientific Name: Polyplectron napoleonis.
Weight: The Palawan Peacock-Pheasant typically weighs between 450 to 700 grams (1.0 to 1.5 pounds).
Lifespan: The lifespan of Palawan Peacock-Pheasants in the wild is estimated to be around 5 to 7 years. However, in captivity, they may live longer, with some individuals reaching up to 10 years or more with proper care.
The Palawan Peacock-Pheasant, scientifically known as “Polyplectron napoleonis,” is a rare and elusive bird species endemic to the island of Palawan in the Philippines. Named after the French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, it is distinguished by its stunning iridescent plumage, which includes shades of blue, green, and bronze.
This bird inhabits dense forests and bamboo thickets, where it forages for seeds, fruits, and small invertebrates on the forest floor. Habitat loss due to deforestation and illegal hunting pose significant threats to the Palawan Peacock-Pheasant’s survival.
Nicobar Pigeon
Scientific Name: Caloenas nicobarica.
Weight: The Nicobar Pigeon is a relatively large pigeon species, with adults typically weighing between 500 to 700 grams (1.1 to 1.5 pounds).
Lifespan: The lifespan of Nicobar Pigeons in the wild is estimated to be around 10 to 15 years. However, in captivity, they may live longer, with some individuals reaching up to 25 years or more with proper care.
The Nicobar Pigeon, scientifically known as “Caloenas nicobarica,” is a magnificent and colourful bird species found primarily in the Nicobar Islands, located in the eastern Indian Ocean. Renowned for its vibrant plumage, featuring iridescent green, blue, and purple hues, the Nicobar Pigeon is one of the largest pigeon species globally.
It inhabits dense forests, mangroves, and coastal areas, where it feeds on seeds, fruits, and small invertebrates. Despite its striking appearance, the Nicobar Pigeon faces threats from habitat destruction, hunting, and predation by invasive species.
Peacock Pheasant
Scientific Name: Polyplectron spp
Weight:The weight of a Peacock Pheasant typically ranges between 500 to 1000 grams (1.1 to 2.2 pounds), varying slightly depending on the species. The weight of a Peacock Pheasant typically ranges between 500 to 1000 grams (1.1 to 2.2 pounds), varying slightly depending on the species.
Lifespan:The lifespan of Peacock Pheasants varies depending on species and environmental factors. In the wild, they typically live around 8 to 12 years, while in captivity, they may live longer, often reaching up to 15 years or more with proper care.
The Peacock Pheasant, belonging to the genus “Polyplectron,” encompasses several species of ground-dwelling birds native to Southeast Asia. Renowned for their striking plumage and distinctive courtship displays, Peacock Pheasants are characterised by their iridescent feathers, adorned with eye-catching patterns and hues.
These birds inhabit dense forests, where they forage for insects, seeds, and small invertebrates on the forest floor. Peacock Pheasants are known for their shy and elusive nature, making them challenging to observe in the wild.
Due to habitat loss and hunting pressures, some species of Peacock Pheasants face conservation threats and are listed as vulnerable or endangered. Conservation efforts, including habitat preservation and anti-poaching measures, are essential for safeguarding these exquisite birds and their natural habitats.
Satyr Tragopan
Scientific Name: Tragopan satyra
Weight: The Satyr Tragopan typically weighs between 1.5 to 2.0 kilograms (3.3 to 4.4 pounds).
Lifespan: The lifespan of Satyr Tragopans in the wild is estimated to be around 8 to 10 years. However, in captivity, they may live longer, with some individuals reaching up to 15 years or more with proper care.
The Satyr Tragopan, scientifically known as “Tragopan satyra,” is a species of pheasant native to the eastern Himalayas, particularly found in Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Tibet. Renowned for its striking appearance, the male Satyr Tragopan boasts vibrant plumage adorned with intricate patterns and colourful markings, including a distinctive blue facial patch and crimson breast.
In contrast, the female exhibits more subdued brownish-grey feathers for camouflage. These ground-dwelling birds inhabit dense forests and mountainous regions, where they forage for berries, seeds, and insects. Despite their captivating beauty, Satyr Tragopans face threats from habitat loss, poaching, and hunting pressures.
Splendid Fairy-Wren
Scientific Name: Malurus splendens.
Weight: The Splendid Fairy-Wren typically weighs around 8 to 13 grams (0.3 to 0.5 ounces).
Lifespan: The lifespan of the Splendid Fairy-Wren averages 5-6 years in the wild.
The Splendid Fairy-Wren, scientifically known as Malurus splendens, is a small bird species endemic to Australia. This avian gem is celebrated for its striking appearance, with males exhibiting vibrant cobalt-blue plumage during the breeding season, while females sport more subdued brownish-grey feathers.
These social birds are often found in small groups, foraging for insects and seeds in scrubland, heath, and woodland habitats across southern and eastern Australia. Known for their melodious calls and intricate courtship displays, Splendid Fairy-Wrens play a vital role in Australia’s ecosystems as both pollinators and seed dispersers. However, habitat fragmentation and predation by introduced species pose significant threats to their populations.
Balearic Woodcock
Scientific Name: Scolopax rusticola.
Weight: The Balearic Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola), on average, weighs around 250 to 400 grams (8.8 to 14.1 ounces).
Lifespan: The lifespan of the Balearic Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola) is typically around 5 to 6 years in the wild.
The Balearic Woodcock, scientifically known as Scolopax rusticola major, is a subspecies of the Eurasian Woodcock found exclusively in the Balearic Islands of Spain, including Majorca, Minorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. This bird inhabits a variety of wooded habitats, including pine forests, oak woodlands, and scrublands.
It is characterised by its cryptic plumage, long bill, and distinctive mottled appearance, which provides excellent camouflage against forest floors. Balearic Woodcocks are primarily nocturnal and feed on earthworms, insects, and small invertebrates found in leaf litter and soil.
Despite being classified as a subspecies of Least Concern, habitat loss and degradation threaten their populations, emphasising the need for conservation measures to protect their natural habitats in the Balearic Islands.
Ribbon-tailed Astrapia
Scientific Name: Astrapia mayeri.
Weight: The Ribbon-tailed Astrapia (Astrapia mayeri) typically weighs around 200 to 250 grams (7.1 to 8.8 ounces).
Lifespan: The lifespan of the Ribbon-tailed Astrapia (Astrapia mayeri) in the wild is estimated to be around 5 to 7 years.
The Ribbon-tailed Astrapia, scientifically known as Astrapia mayeri, is a species of bird-of-paradise native to the mountain forests of Papua New Guinea. It is renowned for its striking appearance, featuring an exceptionally long tail adorned with shimmering ribbon-like feathers, which can extend up to three feet in length.
The male Ribbon-tailed Astrapia displays iridescent plumage in hues of blue, green, and purple, with elongated white plumes on its breast. This species inhabits montane forests at elevations between 1,500 and 2,800 meters, where it feeds primarily on fruits and insects. Due to its limited range and habitat destruction, the Ribbon-tailed Astrapia is classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Silver Pheasant
Scientific Name: Lophura nycthemera.
Weight: The weight of a Silver Pheasant (Lophura nycthemera) typically ranges from 700 to 1,000 grams (1.5 to 2.2 pounds) for males, and slightly less for females.
Lifespan: The lifespan of a Silver Pheasant (Lophura nycthemera) is usually around 10 to 15 years in captivity, while in the wild, it’s generally shorter, ranging from 3 to 5 years due to predation, habitat loss, and other environmental factors.
The Silver Pheasant, scientifically known as Lophura nycthemera, is a species of pheasant native to Southeast Asia, particularly found in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos. Known for its striking appearance, the male Silver Pheasant boasts glossy silver-grey plumage with black markings and a distinctive long tail adorned with metallic blue and green iridescence.
Females, on the other hand, exhibit more subdued brown plumage with black barring. These birds inhabit dense forests, preferring areas with thick undergrowth and bamboo thickets. Silver Pheasants primarily feed on seeds, berries, insects, and small invertebrates.
Temminck’s Tragopan
Scientific Name: Tragopan temminckii.
Weight: Temminck’s Tragopan (Tragopan temminckii) typically weighs between 1.5 to 2.5 kilograms (3.3 to 5.5 pounds).
Lifespan: The lifespan of Temminck’s Tragopan (Tragopan temminckii) in the wild is typically around 6 to 10 years. However, in captivity, they can live longer, sometimes reaching up to 15 years or more with proper care.
Temminck’s Tragopan, scientifically known as Tragopan temminckii, is a species of pheasant native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China. Named after Dutch naturalist Coenraad Jacob Temminck, this bird is known for its vibrant plumage and striking appearance. The male Temminck’s Tragopan features a blue face, red facial skin, and a unique inflatable bright orange throat sac, which it displays during courtship rituals.
Females, however, are more cryptically coloured with brown plumage to blend in with their surroundings. These birds inhabit dense forests and shrubby areas, feeding primarily on seeds, fruits, and insects. Despite facing threats like habitat loss and hunting, Temminck’s Tragopan is currently listed as a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Ocellated Turkey
Scientific Name: Meleagris ocellata.
Weight: The Ocellated Turkey (Meleagris ocellata) typically weighs between 2.5 to 4 kilograms (5.5 to 8.8 pounds).
Lifespan: The lifespan of an Ocellated Turkey (Meleagris ocellata) in the wild is estimated to be around 7 to 10 years on average. However, in captivity, they may live slightly longer, up to 12 years or more with proper care.
The Ocellated Turkey, scientifically known as Meleagris ocellata, is a species of turkey found primarily in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico and parts of northern Guatemala and Belize. Renowned for its colourful plumage and distinctive eye-shaped spots on its tail feathers, this bird is smaller than the more familiar wild turkey species.
The males, known as toms, display iridescent feathers and vibrant blue and red wattles during courtship rituals. Ocellated turkeys inhabit dense tropical forests and feed on a varied diet consisting of fruits, seeds, insects, and small reptiles. While not currently classified as endangered, habitat destruction and hunting pose significant threats to their populations, prompting conservation efforts in their native range.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Ocellated Turkey is a captivating species known for its stunning appearance and unique behaviours. Its presence in the lush forests of the Yucatán Peninsula adds to the region’s biodiversity and cultural significance. However, like many wildlife species, it faces challenges due to habitat loss and hunting pressures.
Conservation efforts aimed at preserving its habitat and regulating hunting activities are crucial for ensuring the continued survival of this remarkable bird. By raising awareness and implementing sustainable practices, we can help safeguard the future of the Ocellated Turkey and the ecosystems it inhabits for generations to come.