Peacocks or peahens?

[laurenbea]

Hi all, I hope you can help. My dad lives in France and last week he rescued three peafowl from a very small cage so they could have a better life in his countryside house. They were very tatty and malnourished. Now they've been wormed and well fed they're coming on a treat in their new home. The question is - are these peacocks or peahens? He thinks they are about 12 months old. Thanks in advance.

 

[Peafowlssssssss]

Hi all, I hope you can help. My dad lives in France and last week he rescued three peafowl from a very small cage so they could have a better life in his countryside house. They were very tatty and malnourished. Now they've been wormed and well fed they're coming on a treat in their new home. The question is - are these peacocks or peahens? He thinks they are about 12 months old. Thanks in advance.

They are all india blue males.

 

[DylansMom]

Agreed, they are all IB boys. Poor things are lucky your Dad has a big heart!

 

[laurenbea]

Thanks guys. That's what we thought but wanted to ask the experts! It's been his dream since he was a kid to have two of these beautiful birds, but he couldn't bear to leave one on its own in the state they were in...so brought all three home. Are three boys ok living together? He's doing plenty of research but thought I'd ask!

 

[DylansMom]

Thanks guys. That's what we thought but wanted to ask the experts! It's been his dream since he was a kid to have two of these beautiful birds, but he couldn't bear to leave one on its own in the state they were in...so brought all three home. Are three boys ok living together? He's doing plenty of research but thought I'd ask!

They are young and will be fine as a group for a couple years yet. When they reach maturity and the breeding season rolls around he may have to worry about them leaving in search of mates, if they are free ranging. If he gets some hens to keep them company they should stay put, but you may see some sparring for dominance. This is usually not a big deal if they are free range and the loser can get away before he gets hurt. If you check out Zazouse's posts you will learn a lot about the behavior of free rangers.

 

[laurenbea]

Brilliant thanks. They've already got seven hens and several ducks too. They're all free roaming during the day around the garden and vineyards and head back to their barn in the evening, a very friendly bunch. I'll check out the posts you've suggested - thank you!