The peacock (scientific name: Pavo cristatus) was officially declared the national bird of India in 1963.

Why is the Peacock the National Bird of India?

1. The peacock is a uniquely beautiful male bird.
2. In Indian culture and tradition, the peacock feather symbolises intelligence and is often associated with Lord Krishna, who is depicted wearing a diadem adorned with a peacock feather.
3. It is widely distributed across India and can be easily recognised by the general population.
4. The peacock represents elegance, joy, beauty, and affection.
5. Unlike other birds, it is not confused with the national symbols of other countries.
6. The bird holds a significant place in Indian mythology and legends.

Interesting Facts About the Peacock:

1. In Hinduism, the peacock symbolises Indra, the god of thunder, rain, and war.
2. Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya dynasty, is believed to be descended from peacock tamers, referred to as "Mayura-Poshakha" in Sanskrit.
3. Peacocks are fully protected under the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
4. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) categorises peacocks as a species of "Least Concern."
5. The peacock is associated with Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva.
6. As omnivorous birds, peacocks thrive in low-altitude grasslands, forests, and areas close to human habitation.
7. The bird holds religious and mythological significance in Indian traditions.
8. Peacocks are often depicted in ancient Indian art and architecture.

National Bird of India - Questions and Answers 

• What is the national bird of India?

  The national bird of India is the peacock (Pavo cristatus), also known as the Indian Peafowl.

• When was the peacock declared the national bird of India?

  The peacock was declared the national bird of India in 1963.

• Why was the peacock chosen as the national bird of India?

  The peacock was chosen for its unique beauty, cultural and religious significance, wide distribution across India, and its association with myths, legends, and traditions.

• What does the peacock symbolise in Indian culture?

  In Indian culture, the peacock symbolises elegance, beauty, joy, affection, and intelligence. Its feathers are also linked to Lord Krishna and are considered sacred.

• What is the religious significance of the peacock in India?

  The peacock is associated with Hindu deities like Lord Krishna, who adorns his crown with a peacock feather, and Lord Murugan, whose mount is a peacock. It is also linked to Indra, the god of rain and thunder.

• What laws protect peacocks in India?

  Peacocks are protected under the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which prohibits their hunting and trade.

• Where can peacocks be found in India?

  Peacocks are found in low-altitude grasslands, forests, and areas near human settlements across the country.

• What is the significance of the peacock in Indian mythology?

  The peacock is deeply embedded in Indian mythology, where it is portrayed as a sacred bird linked to gods, beauty, and prosperity. It is also depicted in ancient Indian art and architecture.

• What do peacocks eat?

  Peacocks are omnivorous birds, feeding on insects, plants, seeds, small reptiles, and even small mammals.

• What is the conservation status of the peacock?

  According to the IUCN Red List, the peacock belongs to the "Least Concern" category, indicating that it is not currently at risk of extinction.