CHAPTER-4

BREEDING BIOLOGY

4.1 INTRODUCTION:-

Nest building is as elaborate complex pattern of behaviour. Popularly the

word nest implies a structure made by a bird in which eggs are laid and incubated

(Parasharya 1999). For the safety of their eggs and young, bird build nests which

may range from a simple scrape in the ground, as of the Lapwing, to such

elaborate structures as the compactly woven nest of the Weaver bird (Ali Salim,

1996).

There were many reports on the breeding behaviour of Galliformes; such

as on the breeding biology of Ring-necked Pheasant Phasianus colchicus and

some Indian Pheasants (Singh & Shingh, 1995), John Singh (1980) worked on

calls of Common Indian Peafowl related with sexual behaviour and related

aggression. Ali and Ripley (1969) described display behaviour of Indian Peafowl.

Yasmin and Yahya (1996) investigated correlates of mating success in Indian

Peafowl. Yasmin (1995) also worked on group size during breeding season and

non-breeding season. Ridley et al (1984) describe the courtship display of Feral

Peafowl. Hillgarth (1984) discribe social organisation of wild peafowl in India.

Ecological study of breeding of the peafowl were done by Indra Kumar Sharma

(1972). John singh & Murli (1980) studied ecology and behaviour of the Indian

Peafowl.

Bent 1904, Gross 1923, Nickell 1966 and Hoffman and Prince 1975

reported on nest height to show the variation in preference of nest location.

Stoner 1937, Hickey 1942 and Ratcliff 1962 examined nest location of some birds

and concluded that nesting may be influenced by anthropogenic pressure. And

such interference causes subsequent nest to be placed higher above the ground.

Burger (1978) has sown the height preference of some waterfowl at the mixed

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nesting colony. Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentiles. As the Peafowl was found

to nest in urban and rural areas, it was decided to study the nest side selection to

determine various influences like the nest site selection, availability of foraging

ground in a proximity to the nest site, human disturbance and availability of

water from nest site. Further on nest location preference was considered to be

taken in to an account to examine any preference towards safety and strudiness

against climatic conditions and predatory threats. Study on size, kind and quality

of nesting materials were also considered to determine if any specific preference.

Breeding biology of the various avifauna have been studied by many

scientists with the definite interests such as mock (1975) on Boat-billed Heron,

Cheng et al (1988) on Domestic Chicken, Parasharya and Naik (1988) on Reef

Heron Egretta gulans, Rimlinger (1984) on Temmick's Tragopan Tragopan

temmincki, Severinghaus (1979) on Koklass Phesant Pucrasia macrolopha.

Garson et al (1987) worked on Cheer Phesant Catraeus wallichi, Gadhvi (2001)

worked on White Ibis Threskiomis melanocephalus. These studies were

considered when designing investigations on the breeding behaviours like the

territory formation (establishment). Pair formation, courtship behaviour,

involvement of individual sex in nest site selection and nesting, courtship display

behaviour, site preference of display, mating, incubation, clutch size, egg

measurement, incubation, weight loses during incubation, hatching success,

predation of eggs, development of chicks. Mortality in chicks, predation of

Peafowl etc.

There are several factors that influence nesting of the birds, of which food

availability is an important factor for passerine species (Lack 1954), which in tum

is dependent on other factors such as climate, habitat and competetion (Lack

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1968, Llamp 1970). Servantly and Marshal (1975) accounted that the breeding

period mainly depends on temperature and rainfall. On set of breeding is decided

by the length of daylight and not by the temperature also the intensity of light is

not as important as the ratio between periods of light and darkness in each 24

hour cycle (Singh and Singh, 1995). Dusi and Dusi (1968) have shown how

insufficient water causes nesting failure, where as extessive water could also

influence poor nesting success (Kushlan et ai, 1975). In a semiarid region like

Saurashtra, the cycle of life for all organisms living inland revolves around the

monsoon (Mundkur 1991). According to Sharma (1972) good shower of rain are

necessary for the successful commencement of the breeding season in Peafowl.

This study also set out to document the breeding season and its relation to

weather condition and avialbility of water and food.

4.2 MATERIALS AND METHODS ;-

The study area was surveyed in different periods of the day during

breeding season between late summer to late monsoon during 1996 to 1999 to

record the breeding biology of Indian Peafowl.

As Peafowl is the territorial bird the area was survey during late summer

to identify different territories established by the Peacocks. Male territories were

mapped form the position of fights, area of crop field and other disputes (e.g.

parallel walks (c. S. Rands et aI., 1984). Display site of each territories were

recorded. Data of distance of water from display site, distance of road from

display site, record of roosting tree in territory and presence of Peacock in each

territory were recorded.

Observation on different courtship behaviour were made as per event.

Observation on courtship behaviour were recorded in three different periods of

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the day; namely morning, noon and evening to demarcate the most preferred

period for such and activity.

Calls made by Peacock related with sexual behaviour were recorded;

number of repetetion of call were also recorded further more number of repetetion

of calls were divided in to two categories, first one was number of repetetion of

calls made by central territorial male and the second was number of repeterion of

calls made by territorial non-territorial and sub adult male. Time spend in display

behaviour by male in presence of female and the later was time spend in display

by male in absence offemale.

Response given by female in respect to male shivers and hoot dashes

during display were recorded and classified in to different categories.

Male behaviour '-

1). Shivers :- As soon as the male turns towards to female or the female runs

round to the front of the fan, the male ceases fanning his wing and by pitching his

body and wings forward over his back, presses the fan down towards her. At the

same time, he shivers the rear tail feathers from side to side, producing a

characteristic rustle and causing he loose, iridescent barbs on the quills of the fan

to tremble and glitter, while the ocelli themselves remain fairly stilt.

2). Hoot-dash :- The male sometimes gives strangled hoot and lunges towards the

female, partially lowering the fan and chasing her in tight circle. (Ridley et at.,

1984)

Female response :-

1). Flapping wing :- Female flaps the wings one to three times towards the

displaying male.

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2). Stand and loocks on to male :- Female simply stand stop its feeding activities

for few time and loocks on to displaying male.

3). Walks :- Female walks from the feeding ground and left territory.

4). Run behind male :- Some time female runs behind displaying males.

If there was harem difence by male was recorded.

Observation on group size in Peafowl were recorded during breeding

season and compared this data with group size during non-breeding season to

determine if there any change in group size during breeding season and non­

breeding season.

Nest site selection by Peahen were divided in to two categories viz. nest

site near human habitat. Total nests recorded during the study period form April-

1996 to October 1999. were divided into two classes viz. singly used nests which

were observed to be used during several breeding seasons. Distance of road from

nest and distance of water from nest were also recorded. Observation on nest type

and surrounding vegetation have been recorded and vegetation used as nesting

materials were classified up to species level.

Number of eggs were counted at the approachable nests to determine the

clutch size and egg laying period at the 8 nests by marking every single egg with

the marker, assuming non-toxic ink. Selected nests were visited regularly once in

a day. Egg weight were calculated with the help of weighing scale. One nest with

five egg was selected for observation of weight loss in egg during incubation and

compared this data with standard data of weight loss in egg. To record data of

turning of egg by female eggs were marked arrow, the position of arrow mark was

observed at different time duration. Data of egg length and egg width were

recorded with the help of a verniar callipers. Egg volume, egg surface and egg

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index were recorded with the help of mathematical equation derived by C. K.

Borad. Formula is as under.

The mathematical estimation is based on the formula of spheroid.

Volume ('f) : V = 0.52 LB2

Surface area(s) :

V = Volume

L = Maximum length

B = Maximum breadth

0.52 is a constant

The egg surface is considered as the two third power of the volume.

S = KV2I3

Egg shape index:

ESl = B/L X 100

S = Surface area

V= Volume

K = 4.831 constant.

ESI = Egg shape index

L = Maximum length

B = Maximum breadth.

Rate of hatching success were recorded and data of mortality rate were

recorded.

A period of breeding activities including call, rapetetion, establishment of

territories, display behaviour, response given by Peahen in respect to male

display, nest site selection, nest building, egg laying, incubation and chick rearing

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was considered as breeding cycle. Egg laying period was considered from the

presence of an eggs in nest as a first day and followed until all the potential eggs

being laid in following couple of days. Incubation period was considered by

observing continued guarding by the Peahen in the nest which listed till the

hatching. Parental care was observed, number of chicks with a Peahen were also

recorded to confirm how many chicks were safe with his mother.

Date of shedding of train feathers were recorded. Some captive readings

were taken to made observations of chick development and increase in weight at

different age. Observations were made to confirm predation in study area.

All the observations were made from about 50 meter distance, seating

behind tree or hide to avoid any disturbance. Observations were made with the

help of pair of binoculars (10 x 50 and 8 x 35) and timing were recorded with the

help of 1/10 second by accurate Rocer stop watch.

4.3 RESULTS :-

4.3.1. Territory establishment:

Peafowls are a territorial birds they perform territorial behaviour during

breeding season. They were start to establish territory from month of April and

they remained in the territory upto the end of breeding season. total 27 territories

were surveyed to study the detail matters from each territory.

Average area of each territory was 0.86 hectare, the maximum area

occupied by a Peacock was 02.00 hectare, were as the minimum area was 00.25

hectare. Each territory having one or more display site, this site was used by

Peacock for its favourite mating dance which is a courtship display behaviour.

Out of 27 territories only one territory having 3 display sites, 17 have two display

sites were as 9 having only 1 display site. Distance of road from territory was

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recorded, out of 27 territories 06 (22.22 %) were located near road eg within 50

m. distance from road where as 21 (77.78 %) were located more than 50 m.

distance from road (Table-4.1). Distance of water from each territories was

recorded 16 (59.26 %) territory was located near water resource ego within 50 m.

distance from water where as 11 (40.74 %) were located mor than 50 m. distance

from water (Table-4.1). Distance of human-habitat from territories were also

recorded out of 27 territories 5 (18.50 %) near human habitat where as 22 (81.50

%) were located more than 50 distance form human habitat (Table-4.1).

Each adult Peacock having its own individual territory, adult male

remained strictly in it for most of time and attacked or threatened any intruding

male. From 27 surveyed territories 21 (77.78 %) having roost tree where as 06

(22.22 %) territories were without roost tree. The adult male was found to spend

most of its time in its territories from early morning to late evening but during hot

hours of the day (10.00 a.m. to 16.00 pm.) is was moved under roosting tree or

hedge.

4.3.2. Calls of Peacock:

Bhavnag<lf University LibrLlry.

BHAVNAGAR.

Peafowl were much vocal during breeding season long call

mee ... ow .... mee ... ow .... were related with sexual behaviour, data of repetition of

call in each time were collected, mean number of repetition of call was 3.86, SD ±

1.56 with minimum 01 and maximum 10 times per observation (Table-4.2a).

number of repetition of central territorial male were mean 5.39, SD ± 1.99 with

minimum of 01 and maximum 10 times per observation (Table-4.2). Fig-4.la

shows percentage of observation and number of repetition of call were as Fig.

4.1 b indicate percentage of observation and number of repetition of call in central

territorial male.

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4.3.3. Display behaviour:

Table-4.3 shows yearly record of first courtship display behaviour by

Peacock in study area. Peacocks were started its display behaviour form April in

study area and continued till August. Male bird spends its maximum time in

display at early morning to late morning (06.00 am. To 10.00 am.) and at early to

roosting time (5.00 am to 7.30 pm.). Generally male takes rest during hot hours of

the day (10.00 am. To 05.00 pm.), under hedge of crop fields or under tree at

territories. Table-4.4 shows average time spend for display by male in presence of

female and in absence of female according to that data in presence of female male

was displayed for longer time (average 09.85 min., SD ± 7.58, R:02.00 to 40.00

min.) whereas in absence of female it was displayed for shorter time (average

02.36, SD ± 2.27 min., R: 00.5-09.00 min.) but in response to female call it was

displayed for average 6.00 min. in absence of female also.

There were no any evidence found of harem defence during study period,

during breeding season female freely moved form one territory to another

territory and loocks to displaying male during its visit. Table-4.5 shows response

given by female in respect to hoot-dashes and shivers of male display behaviour

from total 205 observations of female response 77 times female stand and looks

on to male 10 times Peahen flapping its wing .03 - times female flapping its wing

and jump. 105 times it were walked from display site of male territories where as

10 times it run behind male.

4.3.4. Group size in breeding season :-

Observation of group size during breeding season were taken. Table-4.6

shows data of group size out of total 392 observations on group size behaviour

only male groups were recorded for 220 (56.13 %). Only female groups were

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recorded for 88 (22.45 %) times female and juvenile-groups were observed for 30

(07.65 %) times. Whereas mixed groups were observed for 54 (113.77 %) times.

Figure-4.2 indicates detail information about each group composition according

to that data out of total 229 observations of male groups 208 (94.54 %) were

solitary male whereas only 12 (05.46 %) groups were observed. Out of 88

observations of female group 36 (40.90 %) female were found solitary and 52

(59.10 %) groups were observed.

4.3.5. Nest site selection ;-

There was no any observations which indicates the role of Peacock in nest

site selection. Nest site selection was only done by Peahen. Peacock did not take

part in this process. Important factors which influence the nest site selection were

distance of water from nest site distance of human habitat, distance of road, safely

against climate and surrounding vegetation. Table-4.7 shows distance of water

and distance of human habitat from nest. Total 8 nests were selected that

observation. Out of 8 nests 06 (75.00 %) were within 50 m. of distance from water

where as 02 (25.00 %) were more than 50 m. of distance from water. From the

total 08 nests only 01 nest was within 50 m. of distance from human habitat

where as 07 (87.50 %) nests were more than 50m distance from human habitat.

Further more, out of 08 nests 06 (75.00 %) were more than 50 m. away from road

where as 02 (25.00 %) nests were within 50 m from road.

From the observed 08 nests only 02 nests were used repeatedly by the

Peahen where as 06 nests were not used in next breeding season by the Peahen. It

was observed that Peahen was not so alert about adverse affect of climate, out of

08 nest 02 nests were near riverbank so there was possibility of distruction of nest

due to flood in river. Surrounding vegetation plays important role in nest site

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selection, out of selected OS nests 07 nests were having grasses like Dichanthium

annuiaum (Jinjavo), Manikara haxandra (Rayan) and Zisyphus sp. (Boradi) and

Soft twings of plants like Neem. When these materials were dried up the colour

was beautifully camouflage with the Peahen. 01 nest was not having grass or dry

twings of plant but it consists of pebbles at the bottom of nest colour of these

pebbles also were camouflage with the colour of female. From the OS nests 07

nests were located closely with hedge or in between the hedge, this type of nest

site selection was helpful for camouflage due to that Peahen get protection from

predator and human being during incubation. Another important point in nest

site selection was open pathway for flight this was helpful for Peahen to fly

quickly in emergency.

4.3.6. Nest:-

Simple scrapes type of nest was found in Peafowl, this type of nest was

found on the ground sparsely lined with grasses and leaves. Materials used by

Peahen in nest building at OS selected nests were grass sp. like Cynodon dactyJon

(Dharo), Dichantihium annuiatum (Jinhavo), Dinebro retroOexa (Khariu),

Leaves ofAxadirachta indica (Neem), Manilkara hexandra (Rayan) and Prosopis

juiiOora (Gando baval), dry twings of Euphorbis neriiOia (Vadthor), Axadirachta

indica (Neem) and non-living substance like Pebbles and Clay.

Average depth of the nests were 10.5 cm. SD: ± .90 (range 09cm-12.5cm.)

whereas mean diameter of the nests were 35 cm. SD ± 3.95 (range 2S.50 cm-

40.00 cm) (Table-4.S). The vegetation around nest site were grass sp. and herbs

sp. like TriumfHta rhomboidea (Zipto), Edipta aJba (Bhangaro), Amaranthus

Jividus (Tandaljo), Aristida adscensionis (Lapdy), Cynodon dactyJon (Dharo),

Dichanthium annuiatum (Zunzvio), Dinebra reJtroOexa (Khoriu), Pennistum

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t;phoides (Bajro), Sorghum velgare (Juwar) etc. Shrubs like Euphorbia neriiro/fa

(Vadthor), KirgandJfa retfcu1ata (Kamboi), Acacia famesiana (Tal Baval), Acacia

Senegal (Gorad Baval), Ziz;phus nummularia (Chanibor) where as tree sp. found

near nest were Azadirachta indica (Neem), Prosopis juliDora (Gando Baval),

Mahilkora haxandra (Rayan), Ficus bengalensis (Vad) and Syzygium cumini

(Jambu). The hedge were made form dry branches of Prosopis juliDora (Gando

Baval), Ziz;phus nummularia (Chanibor), Acaliaarebia (Deshi Baval), Acacia

famesfana (Tal Baval)and AcaCIa Senegal (Gorad Baval).

4.3.7. Clutch size:

Peahen lays generally 3 to 5 eggs, to conform the clutch size 08 nests were

surveyed. Table-4.9 shows detail of number of clutch size in study area. Mean

clutch size was 4.75, SD ± 1.28, having maximum 7 eggs in a clutch and

minimum 3 eggs in a clutch.

4.3.7. Eggs:

Peahen lays one eggs per day. So egg laying period was dependent upon

the clutch size of nest colour of the egg was a light buff or milky white. Some

times having patch of red colour of blood, this was found particularly in the

young Peahen which lays eggs first or second time. Table-4.11 shows

mathematical calculated values of average egg volume, egg surface and egg

index. According to that data average egg volume was 99.147, SD ± 8.47, (R-

76.08-118.88). Average egg surface area was 319.00 SD ± 27.26 having

maximum surface area, 382.49 and minimum was 244.74. average egg index was

75.20 SD ± 1.89 with minimum 70.93 and maximum 80.77. Average egg length

was found 06.95 cm (R:6.19-7.40) and average width was 05.23 cm (R : 4.80-

5.60) where as the average weight was calculated 110.09 gram (R:94.00-128.80).

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4.3.9. Incubation and hatching:

During the study period there was no any evidence of incubation for

Peacock as this work was done only by female. Incubation period was started

after the completion of egg laying, during incubation period female seat on to the

eggs, most of the day time and during whole night. During incubation Peahen

was turned eggs after regular time interval of 26-32 minutes. The incubation

period for Peafowl was 28 days.

As development proceeds the egg loses weight. Table-4.12 shows loss in

weight of the eggs during the incubation average 10.95 %, SD ± 0.75 weight was

lost during incubation. Fig.-4.3 indicates gradual weight loss in egg during

incubation according to the data 1.63 weight was lost during 25 % incubation of

50 % incubation weight loss was 4.4 % and at 75 % incubation weight loss was

7.59 % and at end of incubation weight loss was 11.11 %.

Table-4.13 shows hatching success in Peafowl. Percentage of hatching

success was 42.10 where as 57.90 % eggs were destroyed or failed from hatching.

4.3.10. Parental care and mortality:

Parental care was highly developed in Peafowl, care was taken by female.

Chick of the Peafowl was of percocial type so, chicks could be walking in a few

minutes after hatching, at that stage maximum care was taken by peahen. Chicks

were walking behind the Peahen at the age of a few hours, they were walking in a

que behind Peahen, this type of waling pattern was useful for chick in protection

as well as possibility of getting food. If there was any danger another females

from the group also help the chick by guarding them.

Fig.-4.4 high light the number of chicks found with Peahen during study

area according to that figure, 41.50 % peahen having 2 chicks, 29.30 % peahen

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having 4 chicks, 09.75 % having 3 chicks were as 02.40 % having 6 chicks thus, in

case of 70 % observations Peahens were found having 1 or 2 chicks.

Female were not roosted on roosting tree until chicks were capable for

flying, after the age of 2 months chick could fly properly and first few days they

roost at lower branch of smaller roosting tree.

Mortality was found in chicks of Peafowl. Rate of mortality was quite

high, during study period mortality rate in chicks was found 56.50 % in study

area.

4.3.11. Moulting of train feather:-

At the end of breeding season Peacocks were observed to shed its train

feathers this phenomena is called moulting of train feathers shadding of train

feathers, were started from late August and continued till month of October. At

the end of October total train feathers were sheded off and the male become

without train.

4.3.12. Development of chick in captivity :

At the hatching time the eyes were open and body was covered with the

down plumage. Freshly hatched chicks respond to tactile and auditory stimuli.

Chick can walk very nicely right from first day and take food it self, from the

second day it can run easily, to eat food and drink water. At the age of three days

started flapping its wings and jump up to six inches and possage passive flight

from the height of three feet. Chicks were very noisier made continue calls like

kok ... kok... during day time but at night they were not made call like

kon ... kok .... Beak was reddish yellow at hatching time after twenty days it

became blackish, wing and tail feathers developed very fast afeter twenty days.

Crest was arising in chicks at age of one and half month (45 days) colour feathers

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were developed after 80 days. There was observation of display of chicks, it was

seen that the chick could up ward its tail feather and could display like an adult

male.

Table-4.14 shows gradual development of chick in captivity, data shows

that the weight of chick at hatching were about 80 to 100 grams and at the age of

6 months weight increases and become 2 kilograms. Fig-4.S shows the weight was

increase more during winter in comparision to monsoon.

4.3.13. Predation:

There was direct observation obtained for the predation by mammalian

species both on chick as well as adult bird.

Jungle Cat and Common Cat were the main predatiors of chicks. Seven

chicks have been kiIled by Common Cat and Jungle Cat during study period. One

chick was observed to be killed by a Common Krait.

Adult Peafowl were predated by many mammalians including man, the

main predation recorded during study period by Jungle Cat, Jackel, Dog and

Human.

4.3.14. Paralysis:

This disease was observed in Peafowl, one chick was suffered from the

disease. Joints of the legs were not worked chick could not stand properly in

primary stages and later on they couldn't run or walk after two months it died.

One adult Peacock was also observed to suffer from paralysis.

4.4. DISCUSSION :-

4.4.1. Breeding Season :-

The act of leaving offspring to succeeding generations is the most

important aspect of an animal life. The individual which produce large numbers

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of healthy offsprings which themselve survives to breeding age are always

favoured by the nature. Peafowls mate in a normal way and the belief among the

uninitiatied that the hen conceives by catching the tears falling from the cock's

eyes while he is dancing is totally erroneous (Dharmakumarsinhji, 1956). Peafowl

showed distinct breeding and non breeding seasons in the area. Many of the

annually fluctuating environmental factors produce favourable and unfavourable

conditions for different activities of an animal. This results in animal breeding at a

particular time of the year when environmental conditions are most favourable

for the survival of the young and minimum stress on the parent, (Geeta Padate,

1999). According to them reproduction demands large amount of additional food

supply especially the birds. The energy is required for the territory establishment,

courtship display, egg formation, nest building, incubation and he nurture of the

young. All these activities were found to be over within a short favourable period.

The normal breeding season for all gallinaceous species was found from early

spring to summer and the physiological and biological functions of their bodies

were found well adapted to this. Most pheasant species will start breeding in

March or April (Singh and Singh, 1995). According to Ms. Padate (1999)

availability of the food found the ultimate factor affecting the timing of breeding,

as natural selection has favoured those individuals that the food is abundant

during the breeding season when the eggs or chicks are in the nest. Whereas

Singh and Singh (1995) decribe that the onset of breeding was decided by the

length of day light and not by temperature. Also the intensity of light was not as

important as the ratio between periods of light and darkness in each 24 hour

cycle, in supporting to his statement they said that a particular species will starts

laying eggs on a particular date, year after year, the variation being no more than

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2-3 days on eigher side. The SW monsoon (June/July to September/October) is

the time when the annual vegetation was found at the height of its luxuriance and

insect life at its peak abundance. In these respects the season corresponds to

spring in the more northerly latitudes. A large section of Indian birds of diverse

families and species found optimum conditions that favoured the breeding. At

mid-October the majority of young birds of the monsoon breeding species were

found to leave their nests (Ali, 1996).

Breeding season for Peafowls in the study area was found between June to

August, this was the same season as at Jodhpur, the peafowi of Jodhpur were

(Sharma, 1972) made his observations breed in the month of June, July and

August. The active breeding period of the Peafowl at Injar was found during

September to October (Johnsingh and Murali, 1978). Accoring to Sharma (1972)

good shower of rain is neccessory for the successful commencement of the

breeding season. Thus, June, July and August months due to having good rain in

the study area. When the breeding season arrives birds showed a steriotype

behaviour staring from territory establishment, courtship display, nest building,

egg laying, incubation and nurture of the youngs. As per Kushlan (1976) food

availability and climatic factors plays a major role in the breeding cycle, findings

of the study area were comparable with the selective nature of the peafowl which

did not nest more during the unfavourable period of drought (during July-August-

2000).

Peafowl showed dimorphism, as sexes were differ in size and colouration,

the male is more showy as stated by Ali (1996) that in birds were the sexes in

colouration it is the male who is the more showy and who takes the initiative in

the display and courtship ceremonials (except in the polyandrous species where

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the normal condition reversed). Peacock is a polygamous bird and the male mate

with two or more females during season.

4.4.2. Territory establishment :-

Territory establishment was the first stereotype behaviour found in

Peafowl. As Peacock maintained a specific area for display, the area was known

as territory, the male birds started to established territory from the month of April

and they remain in the territory up to the end of breeding season. A male having

age of more than three year, were started to establish territory. Adult males with a

completely developed train established display territories in mid- April and

maintained them until the end of the breeding season in September, when molting

of train feathers initiated (yasmin, 1995). Site was selected by the male which

includes to maintain distance from road, water and human habitation. Each

territory having one or more favourite sites for display known as display sites so,

it was important to avoid maximum disturbance from vehicle, catt1es, and

pedestrian. Nearly one fourth territories were near road, where as 78 % territories

were more than 50 meter distance from road side which has suggested that the

bird is conscious about disturbances. Roads were did not used constantly where

two territories found near road, other two territories near road but in chkoo

gargen hence Peacock can concealed themselves from the human beings. It was

also observed that two territories were found near open road. Where the Peacock

of these territories became adapted from the road activity and found aquented

about road disturbances. Water was also found as an important factor for

Peacock, it was observed that Peacock tried to establish its territory mostly near

water source but table-4.1 shwos that they were not succed every time to find

water sources, in addition to that other factors which were also found very

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- -- ----------

significant for the territoriality of Peafowls. It was found in some cases that

territories were more than 50 meter away from water. Out of that eight territories

were in restricted water souce area and other three were found in isolated places.

It was observed that isolation was also found important factor for territory

establishment, Peafowl being shy bird breeding well away from the haunts of man

(Baker and Inglis, 1930). Peacock remained very alert if the territories were near

human habitation, most of territories were found away from human habitation

(81.50 %), but only five territories were near human habitation, in such cases

Peacoks were found well adapted with the human being of that area the Peacock

of such territory was roosted near human habtiation as water facility was

available near human habitation as these factors were found responsible to

establish territory near human habitation. According to Hillgarth (1984) Hillgarth

(1984) each territory occupy its own large roosting tree, hence adults remain with

their territories. It was found at Nuneham courtenay where all the feral Peafowl

roosted in the same tree same type of observation obtained from our study area.

From our study sites 21 territories our of 27 showed roosting trees where the

birds remained with them more time. Six territories were found without roosting

tree as more than one male birds were roosted in the same tree and the tree was

near human habitation. They establish territory away from human habitation,

hence disturbance was more important factor than the roost tree. Each adult male

strictly remained in one small area of the forest for most of the time and attacked

any intruding male. Adult males were seldom seen in one anothers territories but

if they did intrude they were quickly chased off once seen by the territory holder

(Hillgarth, 1984). It was found in the study area that each territory having its own

specific area and if any other adult male try to introduce in to territory they were

82

threaten by the territory holder. Peafowl at Injar seem to bother little about

maintaining their territories (Johnisngh and Murali, 1978). It was observed that

areas of territories found varied from 0.25 hectare to 02.00 hectare having average

0.86 hectare area. Peacocks of Hingolgadh having territories of about 0.5-1.0

hectare areas (Hillgarth, 1984). Observations were recorded that three males were

displaying within distance of only 15 meters at Kasan village of Mahuva Taluka.

Hillgarth (1984) also found six males displaying in the comer of a Lucerne field,

thir territories were much smaller about 0.05 hectare only. Our findings can be

campared with Hillgarth that Peafowl can adapt their territory size to suit the

habitat. In crop field they established large territory (about 2.00 hectare) but in

open area like grazing land they formed small territory (about 0.25 hectare). It

was found that each territory was occupied by only one male.

Each territory having one or more favourite site use by the bird for

displaying, number of display site normally one or two, only one male was found

to have three display sites. Number of display site was depend upon location of

territory, in relation to the exposure with female for display 2 to 3 sites. At

Hingolgadh territories were fragmented in to groups (Hillgarth, 1984), in the

study area also such groups reorded but in addition single territory was also fond,

it indicates that the study area showed the microhabitats viz. crop field, cultivable

forest, waste land and grazing land. No exclusive commanl display occurs. In the

aggregated territories the small central territorial region was traced as in the

Hingolgadh. It was also found that one sub-adult establish its own small territory

(0.25 hectare).

The Peacock normally spend most of time within its territory, from early

morning to late evening but during hot hours of the day they transfer at roosting

83

tree or beneath the hedges of the farm near the territory they did not leave its

territory. It was recorded that Peacock minimese its feeding activity during July­

August as it was the extreme breeding season the bird found engaged for the

courtship display.

4.4.3. Call :-

Peafowl particularly the cock is very famous for its call. The Peacock is

gives call mostly during the breeding season when it emits piercing shrikes which

are prompted by the sound of thunder, in fact any loud noise stimulates the

Peacock to give call (Dharmakumarsinhji, 1956). Different authors have

described the calls of the Peacock in different ways. Ali (1996) described two

calls, one was loud harsh screaming 'May-awe' and the other was short gasping

shrieks 'Ka-aan' 'Ka-aan' repeated rapidly for 6-8 times, with a pumping action of

the head and neck. Scott (1964) has described about two calls, out of which one

was loud 'Phi-ao-phi-ao' and the other was shrill 'Ka-oan-Ka-oan'. Johnsingh and

Murali (1978) described different eleven calls in Peafowl, of them

'Kayong .... Kayong .... Kayong' calls produced by Peacock was found related with

sexual behaviour and related aggression. Dharmakumarsinhji (1956) has

differentiated the calls in to three categories. All authors have been unanimously

agreed that long notes like mee ... ow ... mee ... ow (according to Johnsingh and

Murali Kanyong ... Kayong) was related with courtship behaviour and for that

Peacock were very vocal during breeding season giving frequent loud calls from

early morning to late evening (before departure from roost and after roost).

According to Ali (1996) the songs serve not only to attract likely females, but also

as a warning to rival males to keep away.

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-------------------

During courtship behaviour Peacock usually gives main loud call

(mee ... ow ... mee ... ow) and repeated about 3.86 times (table- 4.2a). It was found

very interesting that an adult male having central territory at crop field area was

recorded to give more repetition of call about 5.40 times (table- 4.2b). This

territorial male having full grown train. Yasin (1996) found the positive

correlation of mating success with calls more than 5 and suggested that call length

might serve as cue in mate selection but she also found that the call rate having no

any relation with mate selection. It was recorded that when an adult male repeats

its call more than eight times, due to geting imbalance it got excited and was

found running in circle, and if the repetition was less than eight times the cock

could stand at same place and had maintained the balance, during its displaying

they some times may not give calls but if they give calls the repetition was of two

to three times only. It was found that in the sub adults the repetition of the call

was only two to three times. It was also noted that when bird started giving calls

in the response all neighbouring birds started to give calls loudly.

4.4.4. Display behaviour :-

During breeding season, Peacock having full length train feathers usually

perform its very famous dance, in relation to courtship display or mating display.

During its well known dance, the train was found helded up right and chestnut­

coloured wings remained at the sides and the bird was moving its feet slowly and

occasionally a shier goes through the body an the train (Singh and Singh, 1995).

The train grows up to six year and may reach a length of 160 cm. (Grazimeck,

1984). In study area fish tail feathers were recorded upto length of 170 cm in full

length train male. Ali and Ripley (1983) also measured the train length upto 140

to 160 cm in adult male. Number of train feathers were 175 to 200. Courtship

85

display normally is considered innate in most species of birds. Rahmani (1990)

observed six day old Peafowl chick cocking the tail and displaying to other chicks

just like an adult Peacock during courtship dancing. Same observations also

recorded by me in captivity. In one case five day old Peafowl cick displaying

various times was described by Rahmani. Sex of the chick could not determined

because at the age of 45 days it was killed by a common house cat but most

probably it would be male chick.

Actual breeding season starts from month of June but Peacock started its

breeding related behaviour from month of April as shown in the table- 4.3 during

year 1996 to 1999 first display was seen in month of April, data shows that every

year the breeding season started at particular time with a particular place. Display

behaviour lasts till August end in the study area. Peacock did not displayed

during all time of the day but they displayed mostly in the early morning and late

afternoon. It was found the Peacock to spend maximum time for display druing

06:00 to 10:00 hr and again at late afternoon between 17:00 to 14:30 hr, during

hot hours of day Peacock took rest within the territory. During July-August

Peacock was found to spend 25 % time in display and giving calls. But during

morning and evening time they could spend nearly 37 % time in display and

giving calls activity.

Peacock selected display site from its own territory for preforming the

courtship dance (Plate- VIa & VIb). While displaying the bird do not tolerate

close approach at the forested area, but those seen close to villages keep on

displaying and allow an approach even up to 20 yards (Dharmakumarsinhji,

1956). According to Johnsingh and Murali (1978) the display or the dance of the

cock is closely associated with the breeding season. Mostly Peacocks performs its

86

display in presence of female or female groups but the presence of females was

not necessary. Scott (l964) has seen one dozen Peacocks dancing in the absence

of Peahens and the same way Dharmakumarsinhji (1956) often seen a Peacock

displaying to a Myna or any other bird when it alights close anough. In the study

area also such observations were obtained that Peacock was dancing in absence of

Peahens. It was also recorded that some time Peacock raised its train and

performed to display in response to calls from nearby males. It was interesting to

note that time taken by Peacock for display in absence of peahen was short. As

per table-4.4 male displayed average 02.36 min in absence of peahen, maximum

display performed by Peacock for 09 minutes in absence of peahen, but generally

it was for 2 to 3 minutes. Peacock display for long time in presence of peahen in

its territory (plate- Vila). One Peacock was recorded to display constantly for 40

minutes at the central territory at crop field but normally they display for 8 to 10

minutes in presence of the female and when the female left the field the male

stoped its dance. It was noted that Peacock mostly continued his dance till peahen

was in close vicinity within territory. The females and juvenile males lived in a

small group of two to five which visited several territories between early and late

morning as well as again at evening time they moved freely from one territory to

another territory as in Hingolgadh (Hillgarth, 1984). Same data was recorded at

Nuneham courtenay (Rands at al. 1984) that in the feral population females were

not paired to anyone male and were not part of a harem structure but visited

several males. There was no observation recorded to confirm that Peacock guard

harems of females. Peacocks are widely reported to guard harem of peahens

during the breeding season (Ali and Ripley, 1983), though our result did not

support to that of Ali and Riplay. Response given by female towards male was

87

mostly similar to that of feral population (Rands et al. 1984), but one interesting

response by female was found within the study area was Flapping the wings and

Jumps. It was observed three times (table- 4.5) that when a Peacock performed

hoot dashes behaviour a Peahen standing at distance of 10 feet flapping its wings

three times and surprisingly jumped about three feet high than stand for five

minutes and left the ground. During courtship behaviour mating takes place,

during copulating the Peacock depresses his train keeping the train partly open

(Dharmakumarsinhji, 1956).

4.4.5. Group size in breeding season :-

The Peafowl showed seasonal variation in group composition (table- 4.6).

Peafowl showed different group composition and group size during breeding and

non-breeding seasons. According to Yasmin (1995) the seasonal variation in

group composition could be influenced by the reproductive pattern and social

organisation of Peafowl. The adult male might have the tendency to remain

solitary due to aggressiveness. Our finding supported Yasmin's statement. Fig4.2

shows that during breeding season 94.5 % males were observed solitary which

indicates that would like to live alone during breeding season because during this

time they was busy to establish territory and its maintanance Yasmin (1995) also

get the same result according to him there was an increase in the male's solitary

behaviour during the breeding season as the males established territories. It was

also recorded that juvenile males and female were associated throughout the year.

About 60 % females were found in groups and nearly 40 % females were found

solitary during breeding season. In late breeding season female were found more

solitary because they busy into egg laying and incubation.

88

4.4.6. Nest site :-

Nest site selection is very important among bird species, it was done by

both partners in some bird species (in polyandrous bird and monogamous bird),

but in polygamous bird this duty was performed only by the female bird. Most

pheasants nest on the ground, Peafowl are also the ground nesting bird; semi-feral

peahens often nest in ancient forts and ruined buildings and frequently even on

the flat roofs of houses in the village (Ali and Riplay, 1983). Dharmakumarsinhji

(1956) found a peahen nesting in old stork nests placed on a tall tree, as well as on

top of the buildings. According to Grzimek (1984) peahen occationally uses

hollow space between the branches of strong trees. As per our observations

peahen did not found to nest on trees, but it happned at some part of the District

that peahen cold nest on top of old building, at termateria. In one case peahen

nested on balcony at third floor of the Life Sciences Department at University

campus Bhavnagar. This indicats the disturbances in its normal habitats. It

remained in search of the safe place for the nesting. Many factors involve in nest

site selection, while for selection of brooding site nearness of water is one of the

prerequisites (Baker and Inglis, 1930). 75 % nests were found near water (table-

4.7), thus our observations supported by Baker and Inglis. It was also interesting

that nearly 88 % nests were found away form human habitat and the same way 75

% nest were at the distance of more that fifty meter from the road side. Sharma

(1972) supported that the need for the isolation and tranquillity of the habitat

more than the near ness of water, our finding have supported the view of Sharma

(table-4.7), except one nest out of all nest which was found isolated from human

habitat within the study area. Only one nest was found near human habitat, was

well protected by the people, hence this was the reason for selecting the nest site

89

near human habitat. More nests were traced near water sources as during

monsoon many temporary water sources develop, hence peahen fulfilled the

requirement of isolation and nearness of water. It was observed that peahen was

not alert about climatic factors, two nests were found close to the bank of river, in

such case during heavy rain in the area the nest could be destroyed surrounding

vegetation played an important role in selection of the peahens. 88 % nests were

traced under bushes or within the hedges, dry branches of hedges could easily

camoufladge the colour of hens, became a factor to protect against predators and

human disturbances. It was also recorded that when peahen selecting the nest site

it always think about its own safety if there was any danger, for that peahens

could select nest site within the open area to be came safe against any danger and

if so they fly easily from the nest. The main reason for nesting on top of building

and roof of houses was getting protection against predators and human beings.

4.4.7. Nest:-

For the safety of their eggs and youngs, birds build nests which may range

from a simple scrape lied on the ground to the compactly woven nests (Ali, 1996).

Nest often constructed with the specific materials or having typical site or they

cared for both factors. Some birds have the sence of decoration as their

reproductive behaviour influenced by the decoration of the nest of the particular

materials e.g. Satin Bower Bird (parasharya, 1999). Nests contructed the peahens

were of simple scrapes on the ground along with grass and leaves. The pattern of

the nest is always found typically unique as per species specific event considered

as an instinct and found as inherited through countless generations of builders

(parasharya, 1999).

90

Various types of grasses were used by peahen for nest construction. It was

observed that the colour of nest material was more comoufladging with the

peahens. In one case it was found within the study area the use of pebbles in the

nest, instead of the use of grasses and twings. This was as a new reports observed

by us in case of the Peafowls. It was found the colour of the pebbles were

camoufladging along the peahens. The depth of the nest was found not more than

12.5 cm and the diameter was not more than 40 cm (table-4.8). Depth and

diameter were found suitable for the peahen to incubate the eggs.

Sharma (1972) found that peahen returns to wards a particular nesting site,

that would be well protected by people for the period of three continuous years. A

use of nest in succession by preferring old ones could save energy required for

search of a safer site and by. shortning the breeding cycle by minimizing the

period of nidification (Vyas, 1996). In case of Peafowl, only female that spare

time and energy in a search of a safer nest site, so by using old nest peahen could

save its time and energy both, thus we found the reuse of nest by peahen in our

study area. One nest traced near hedge of a hut at Pingali was used since last

three year by the peahen, second nest was found within hedge under Mam7kara

hexandra (Rayan) tree at Khared near Pingleshwar Mandir where peahen could

use the same nest for three years. One interesting observation was recorded at

Subhashnager, Bahvnagar where a peahen laid eggs on roof of swings since four

years. Important point was that, it was failed for hatching the eggs every year

even thoudh peahen did not change its nest site and the owner of the house being

lover of wildlife took care and protected the nest of peahen. In such case the

failure of hatching was found, it indicates that protection by human was more

important for peahen than hatching of the eggs.

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4.4.8. Clutch size :-

Model clutch size of the peahen was 5 (Sharma, 1972). According to

Dharmakumarsinhji (1956) peahen lays a normal clutch of five eggs but some

times they have ranged from three to seven eggs and everage clutch size found

4.75 which differed from that of Sharma (Plate- VIIIb). Eight selected nests were

studied for the calculation of average clutch size. It was found that normally

peahen lays five eggs as in our most of (75 %) observations. Dharmakumarsinhji

(1956) had found a nest at Wankaner having twenty one eggs, but this large

clutch must have been the result of three or more hens laying in the same nest.

There was no such observation recorded in the study area. It was observed that if

the eggs were removed from the nest in early phase of incubation, peahen could

lay another set of eggs in the same nest after few days. A peahen layed another set

of five eggs after removing the first clutch was the case found at Rajkot.

Maximum eggs recorded in a single nest was 7, but observations were taken at

Rajkot supported laying of 8 eggs in a single nest.

4.4.9. Egg:-

The avain egg is a product of remarkable physiological factory and is one

of the most complex and highly differentiated reproductive cells (Borad, 1999).

The eggs are a light buff colour often stained while being incubated. Those that

have blood marks on them are laid by young hens (Dharmakumarsinhji, 1956).

According to Ali and Ripley (1983) colour of the eggs are pale cream or cafe-au­

lait to buff with a finely pitted surface. Shape was broad bluant oval. The colour

pattern of bird's egg are almost as varied as the birds themselves or as the

architecture of their nests. It can not be denied that the coloration of egg is a

protective divice and in a general way bears a direct relation to the types of nests

92

in which they are laid (Ali, 1996). It was found that the egg which was laid later

was having less weight where as the egg which was laid earlier was having more

weight. Egg laid by younger hen were smaller in size and having less weight.

Maximum weight recorded of an egg was 128.800 grams where as minimum 94

grams (table-4.IO). According to Ali and Ripley (1983) average size of 100 eggs

was 06.97 X 05.21 cm. Average size of the eggs of the study area calculated from

38 eggs was 06.95 X 05.23 cm it was very similar to average size got by Ali and

Ripley (Plate-Villa). The volume of the egg may be obtained by measuring the

volume of the water that it displaces when sumerged, the mathematical

estimation is based on the formula of spheroid (Borad, 1999) average egg volume

was 99.14. Egg volume was related with egg weight and egg size, egg having

minimum weight and size also having minimum volume (76.08) and same way

egg having maximum weight and size also having maximum volume (118.88).

The egg surface was considered as the two third power of the volume. Thus,

surface area was directly related with egg volume, those egg having maximum

egg volume (118.88) has also maximum surface area (382.50). Egg shape Index

has indicated the variation or the similarities between two eggs or same or

different species. Average value of egg shape Index was 75.20 having SD ± 1.89

indicates that there were the close similarity between all eggs recorded in the

study area.

4.4.10. Incubation :-

Incubation is the term used to describe the process of applying heat to an

egg so that the embryo contained within develops in to a chick. In nature, in the

very large majority of birds, this is done by the hen, or both the parents sitting on

the eggs alternately and thus transferming their body heat to the eggs (Singh and

93

Singh, 1995). Peahen performed the duty of incubation (Plate-Vllb).

Shivrajkumar (1954) shows a Peacock incubating 5 eggs on an old wall. But it

was an exceptional case, there was no any observation recorded in study area or

at any other places. In most bird species (but not birds of prey) incubation begins

after the entire clutch has been laid, so, developmental age is the age since the on

set of incubation and not the time since egg laying (Berwick and Sahria, 1995)

Peahen seat on close to eggs after egg laying for most of the day time and whole

night. Egg laying period was 28 days it was same as stated by Sharma (1972). The

hen is a close sitter and will not flush, unless almost stepped upon. The

surrounding vegetation found to camoufladge the peahen to provide proction.

Pheasant eggs need more frequent turnings than domestic chicken eggs. In nature

the hen pheasant is said to tum her eggs once every 25-30 minutes (Singh and

Singh, 1995). It was not free from danger of predator like Jackel and stray dogs to

observe the eggs after every 30 minutes. But, it was recorded that at every visit the

eggs position were different it support the view of Singh. In Black Ibis the nest

attendant was seen to change its position very often to avoid facing direct sunlight

while changing its position the bird also rotates its eggs to incubate evenly (Vyas,

1996). This type of observations was not recorded in Peahen because nest was not

found in direct sUnlight.

Weighing the egg is a method of monitoring the development of the

embryo. As the development proceeds the eggs loses weight (Singh and Singh,

1995). According to them any egg that loses weight below the minimum (10 %) or

above the maximum (14.50 %) is not likely to hatch. At various states, too much

weight would indicate too much water still in the egg due to a high level of

humidity and vice versa, average weight loss found was 12.5 %. Results of the

94

study area has indicatee 10.95 % weight loss (table-4.ll), it was slight higher than

that of standard data but it was due to high level of humidity in the the study area

during egg laying period (July-August).

4.4.11. Hatching and mortality :-

Though the hen is a close sitter and well camoufladged nest losses were

quite high. Some times hens were killed by Wild Cats while incubation

(Dharmakumarsinhji, 1956). Hatching success was 42 % (table-4.12) it means 58

% egg were failed from hatching due to nest losses, eggs eaten by Jackel, Jungle

Cat, Mangoose, Stray Dogs or by human being. High humidity also prevent egg

hatching.

When the chick hatched out the demand for food increases tremendously

depending on the clutch size so, it is important for a bird to breed at a time when

food is sufficiently abundant (Geeta Padate, 1999), result of the study area was

supporting the view of Ms. Padate having abundant food supply at hatching time.

According to Craig Hopkins (1999) the higher humidity helps to prevent the

members in the egg from drying out too much while the chick is hatching. Keith

Howmean (1979) has said "The hatching stage is the moment of truth and always

an exciting one". It was observed that after 26 days of incubation if we bring the

eggs near to ears to the eggs, we can clearly listen some sounds coming out from

the eggs and egg was jurked various times due to movement of chick which was

now nearly fully developed. Cracks were developed on egg shell before hatching.

When the chick have hatched, Peahen emits a short drum-like sound, like a duch­

dukh with the neck feathers puffed out and to distruct the attention of predators

from the chicks (Dharmakumarsinhji, 1956). The chicks of Peafowl was precocial

type (plate-IX a). Precocial chick grows fast during embryonic condition and

95

walking just after hatching. The chick could walk perfectly from the very first day

and running from second day. No sexual dimorphism was seen in chicks at the

time of hatching.

4.4.12. Parental care :-

Again it was the only Peahen that performed the duty of parental care.

Peahens have the habit of walking away with the chicks that are hatched in the

first two days of hatching (Johnsingh and Murali, 1978). In the study area also

the same observations were recorded (Plate-IXb) chicks were running behind

Peahen and perform mimicry of Peahen's behaviour when Peahen catch the food

item from soil with its beak, chicks carne to that place and tried to get food from

his mother, chick also picked its beak at various places on soil and on grass and

learnt to catch the food material. Is there any danger to chicks two to three

Peahen cover the chicks and thus protected them well. Chicks were not capable to

roost on three up to 60 days, hence the Peahen also rest on land along with chicks

at night, chick rest under wing of Peahen and get heat and some weight. Sharma

(1972) said that the mother hens are capable of chasing the chicks of other brood,

this type of observation was not recorded during our study period.

Chick at the age of 60 days can fly enough to roost on tree. Chick when

shifting its roost place from ground to trees make frequent calls before roosting,

first the mother Peahen takes flight and seat on lower branch of roosting tree,

then all chicks take flight one by one and seat near its mother. To give training

mother Peahen changed roost tree two to three times within 15 minutes, all chick

follow its mother. Finally the chicks were easily goes to top branch of roosting

tree. Chick grew slowly and small feather crown appeared after they were of one

month old (Grzimek, 1984), our observation differed from Grazimeck that small

96

feather crowns appeared after they were one and half month old. It was observed

that with beginning of winter chicks growth became very fast.

Mortality was found very high in chicks (56.5 %) it was due to predation

by Jungle Cat, Jackel, Mongoose, Snake, Stray Dog etc. A study made in USA by

Singh (1995) in an area where no hunting was allowed of the 100 Pheasants

banded and released 30 percent survived to the second year 9 percent to the third

year 2 percent to the fourth year and none to the fifth year. This experiments

showed that insite of such heavy mortality, Pheasants do manage to survive

mainly because of the comparatively large size of clutches and their being multi­

brooded. Because of early post-hatching mortality in most cases only one or two

chicks accompanied the mother (Johnsingh and Murali, 1978). Our findings have

supported (fig-4.4) the view of Johnsingh and Murali (1978). Peahens were found

incapable of looking after more than five chicks (Sharma, 1972), but Johnsingh

(1978) had observed a mother Peahen with six chicks at Injar. During the study

period we had also observed a mother Peahen with six chicks at Pingali village in

crop field habitat, according to Johnsingh (1978) these are exceptional cases.

4.4.13. Chick development in captivity :-

It was observed in captivity that during first two days weight of chick was

decreased, due to loss of excess water from the body. It was also observed that

chick prefered insect food, when offered insects with other food items. Protein

requirement was higher in chick during early development, insect having more

protein in its body. According to Singh and Singh (1995) in captive breeding the

mortality rate was higher in chicks fed a low protein diet. Chick preferred house

fly from very first day of hatching, other favourite food items of chicks were

termites, grasshopper, ants, pulp of vegetables like Chibhada (Cucumis

97

momordica), Dudhi (Logenariya leaucantha) and Turiya (Luifa acutangula (L)),

green seeds of Mag (Vinga anguiaris), Chola (Vinga unguicalata), Guwar

(Cyemopsis tetragonoloba) and grain of Bajara (Pennisetum typhoides) and

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) was taken as food. Chick also eat leaves of Kothamir

(Coriandrum sativum), Palakh (Chenopodium album) and Tulsi (Odmum

sanctum). Chicks were very noisy, when offered a Grasshopper one chick caught

them and other could ran behind them to get it.

4.4.14. Shedding of train feather :-

With the end of active breeding season territorial Peacock had started

shedding their train. In the study area territorial Peacock found started shedding,

its train feathers from the late August in the study area during July-August

months, the breeding season was on peak so, after this month territorial Peacock

started moulting of train feathers, it was a slow process and continued till

October, at the end of October there was no any Peacock found with train. At

Injar territorial Peacock started shedding their train at the end of October and

most of the territorial males had completely lost their train by the middle of

January (Johnsingh and Murali, 1978). Active breeding season started at Injar in

September and continued up to October. So, Peacock at Injar started shedding

their train late. Where as in the Bandipur Tigar Reserve, Karnataka, the territory

males started shedding their train by the end of October. Shedding of train

feathers of the bird was directly related with the end of breeding season.

4.4.15. Parasite and disease:-

In the nature there are always some cases of bacterial infection resulting in

much morbidity and mortality (Singh and Singh, 1995). There are approximately

80 infectious diseases that are some what regularly diagnosed in Peafowl (Dwight

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Schwarts, 1999). Subramanian et al (2000) also recorded Escherichia coli in fecal

droppings from an infected adult Peacock at Chennai. Internal parasites that

found in Peafowls were Ascaridia a Common round worm, Cocal warm

(Heterakis gallinea), Gape worm (Syngamus trachea), Capillaria worms

(Capillaria sp.) and Tapeworms. Lice are common external parasites in out door

birds and birds in the wild. Lice are insect that spend their entire life cycle on the

host, another external parasite is the mite (Dwight Schwartz, 1996).

During the study period two cases of paralysis was recorded one victims

was chick (plate-Xa) which was died within two months. Chick can not stand on

its legs, they can't walk properly during first stage and at last they can't walk. An

adult Peacock was recorded in crop field area but it was not seen again, it did not

walking properly, when was seen in the field as showing paralytic charaters.

99

Table:- 4.1

Distance of territory from roadside, water source and human habitat (in meter),

Distance of .. 1-50 m < 50m Road 6 21

22.22% 77.78% Water 16 11

59.25% 40.75% Human habitat 5 22

18.51% 81.49%

n=27

Table:- 4.2a

Record of Repetition of main loud call (mee ... ow ... mee ... ow) of the Peacock. Data presented as the mean.

Number of Number of

observations repetition of call

-486 X :3.864

SD: ± 1.56

R: 01-10

100

Table:- 4.2b

Record of Repetition of main loud call (mee ... ow ... mee ... ow) of the central territorial Peacock. Data presented as the mean.

Number of Number of

observations repetition of call

-23 X: 5.39

SD: ± 1.99

R: 01-10

Table:- 4.3

Yearly record of first displaying Peacock found in study area.

Sr. No. Year Data & Month

1 1996 6th April

2 1997 13th April

3 1998 2nd April

4 1999 9th April

101

Table:- 4.4

Record of average time spend for display by male in presence and in absence of female. Data presented as the mean.

Display by male in Display by male in

Dresence of female (min). absence of female (min).

X: 09.85 X: 02.36

SD: 07 ± 58 SD: ± 2.27

R: 02.0040.00 R: 00.50-09.00

Table:- 4.5

Cord of Response given by female in respect male displaying behaviour (hoot dash & shivers).

N arne of response Number of

igiven by female observations

Stand and loocks on to male 77 Flapping wing 10

Flappig wing and jump 3

Walks 105

Run behind male 10

n=205

102

Table:- 4.6

Group size found during breeding season in Peafowl. Percentage in parenthesis.

Only male Only female Female and Juvenile Mixed group

220 88 30

56.12 22.45 7.65

Table:- 4.7

Distance of water and human habitat from nest. measurement were made in meters. Percentage in perenthesis

Distance of water Distance of human

from nest (m). habitat from nest (m)

1-50 m 50 < m 1-50 m 50 < m

6 2 1 7

75.00% 25.00% 12.50% 87.50%

n=08

54

13.77

103

Table:- 4.8

Record of depth and diameter of the Peafowl nest found in study area. Measurement were repreaented in centimeter (cm) and range ( R ).

Depth of the nest Diameter of the nest

(em) (em)

X: 10.50 X: 35.00

SD: ± .96 SD: ± 3.95

R: 09.50-12.50 R: 28.50-40.00

Table:- 4.9

Clutch size of the Peafowl recorded in 8 nests.

Nest site Number of eggs Mean

Virabhai's farm 3

Near Virabhai's farm 5 -

Tango farm 5 X: 04.75

Riverbank-l 5 SD: ± 1.28

Near Mavjibhai's farm 5 R: 03-07

Ratabhai's farm 5

Riverbank-2 7

Near Pingjeshwar 3

104

Table:- 4.10

Record of the egg mensuration. Data were presented in mean (X) and range ( R ).

Egg weight X: 110.090

(gm) SD: ± 8.045

R: 94-128.8

Egg length X: 6.95

(em) SD: ± 0.24

R: 6.19-7.40

-Egg width X: 5.23

(em) SD: ± 0.150

R: 4.80-5.60

Egg X: 99.15

Volume SD: ± 8.47

R: 76.08-118.88 t'-; . ".~'--'- '~rsity

f , • 'I. ,- ..:t,.R.

-Egg X: 319.00

Surface area SD: ±27.26

R: 244.78-382.49

-Egg X: 75.20

index SD: ± 1.89

R: 70.92-80.77

n=38

105

Table:- 4.11

Record of loss in the weight of the egg during the incubation. Measurement were made in grams. precentage in parenthesis.

Egg Weight of the Weight of the number egg at laying egg before

time (gm) hatching (gm) I 123.750 110.000

2 120.050 105.650

3 116.500 103.500

4 113.050 101.700

5 112.700 100.900

Total weight of the eggs at laying time: Total weitht of the eggs before hatching time: Total loss in the weight of the eggs :

SD: ±0.75

Loss in the wetight

(gm) 13.750 11.11 14.400 11.99

13.000 11.16

11.350 10.03 11.800 10.47

586.050 521.750 64.300 10.95%

106

Table:- 4.12

Record of hatching success in Peafowl found in study area. Percentage in perenthesis.

Total number of N umber of hatching Number of not-

eggs eggs hatching eggs

38 16 22

42.1 57.9

Table:- 4.13

Record of increasing in weight of chick up to six month of age in captivity. Measurement were made in grams (gm)

Age (in month) Weil ht of chicks (gm) and date Chick-l Chick-2 Chick-3 Chick-4 Chick-5 0 99 84 80 94 85 19/9/97 1 240 210 200 215 210 19/10/97 2 470 390 340 390 345 18/11/97 2 995 855 850 780 780 19/12197 4 1385 1150 1120 1050 1110 19/1/98 5 1680 1580 1560 1490 1600 19/12/98 6 2060 1840 1830 1750 1900 19/3/98

107

Fig.4.la

Fig.4.lb

~

c 0 30 -'p

'" 1: 20 "1 ] 10 0 .... 0 0

<f.

Number of repetition of main loud call of the Peacock.

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Number of repetition ofcall o Observations

N umber of repetition of main loud call of the central territorial Peacock.

CJ 0 D 0 0 D n 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

CJ

10

Number of repetition of call ~~ Observations l

Fig. 4.2

c 0 'p

'" 1: ... ~ .c 0 .... 0 ~

~ e ::s Z

Group size in Indian Peafowl recorded during breeding season.

250 -200 •

I 150 •

100 " 50 J

0 -2

• • 3 4

Group size

• 5

• 6

• Number of observations

Group size

108

Fig. 4.3

Gradual weight loss in egg during incubation. "t:I o .c:

~ 15 ~ t 150 & ::: 10 1 n" 100 c ~ I E 'g? 5 + T r 50 '" ; 0 l-i _~Cl_·.J.--::~::~~~Tr_lL-_-+-__ 1L..J_'-_+-_...1-.l---+ 0 1

2 3 4 0

c::J % of weight 10S~

Fig. 4.4

Fig. 4.5

-<- % of incubatio~ 1

Number of chicles found with Peahen and the percentage of sighting of female with chicles.

c:::J ,. c::=::I -- 1 • c::::J __ 1 -- -

2 3 4 5 6

N umber of chicks with Peahen

Record of increase in weight of chicle during first six month.

rI' 4,,<5>

Month 1-Wei~! in grams I

109

Plate :VI

a. Display behaviour of the Peacock (front view).

b. Display behaviour of the Peacock (back view).

C /: . . '~ ...

. . - -

~-:-". -

. . -~: s:;t:~:-: .

. . ::...; -

ct.

b.

110

Plate: VII

a. Adult peacok in courtship display in presence offemale.

b. Peahen in incubation posture.

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b.

111

Plate: VIII

a. Egg measurement.

b. Clutch of 5 eggs.

, • ~ • ,

• b,

•• ... -

112

Plate: IX

a. Hatching of young one.

b. Peahen with her young chick.

f-·------·----- ~-- --------l ! :~l' J

.-" . "'. r~!~y 1 t, ,.

L

113

Plate: X

a.A paralytic chick.

b. Peacock feeding grains and 'Roti' offered by people.

Bha'lna~J3r University Library.

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114