The Peacock is an absolutely stunning bird which is native to the island of Sri Lanka, it’s distinctive call can not only be heard all over the jungles but also in more urban areas. It is the largest of the pheasants and can also be found native to India. The male peacock has an absolutely stunning plumage, where as the female pea hen is a very plain brown bird with none of the lovely bright colours and ornamental feathers. They have an average life span of 20 years in the wild. The male attracts the female by stretching out its lovely feathers into a circular fan framing its neck, head and crown, dancing so that the feathers make a wonderful rattling sound, while shouting loudly. It is a magnificent display of courtship. One which we were privileged to watch on several occasions during our visit to Sri Lanka.

As you can expect a bird with these looks is surrounded in religious symbolism. It means different things in different cultures. It’s uniqueness and magnificent beauty makes it an easy symbol of power, strength, confidence and even divinity.

It is believed that they eat poisonous plants, insects and snakes. The Buddhist belief is that this beautiful bird represents wisdom and the ability to turn poison into beneficial nutrients. They also believe that that Peacocks are related to bodhisattvas, godlike beings, which come to earth to help humans gain enlightenment. This allows them to be like the Peacocks and turn “poisons of ignorance, desire and hatred into fuel for spiritual growth”.

Hindus in Sri Lanka also have a special place for peacocks. The God Kataragama, ‘Skanda’ sits with his wives and peacocks on either side. Lord Vishnu is often depicted with a peacock in the background.
With in the Islamic religion, Muslims interpreted the peacock as a bird of paradise, which is the gate keeper and guide to the people in heaven it is supposed to repel the devil and guide believers. The Peacock’s feathers are supposed to ward off evil spirits, it is seen as a symbol of beauty and elegance.

When visiting Kandy we went to see a cultural show. Part of the show was Kandyan dance. The peacocks play a big part in this, with an entire dance depicting the behaviours and looks of the peacock. This part of the dance is known as Mayura Natuma

Seeing these creatures displaying their beauty in the wild can only be described as a privilege.