Birds | February 5, 2022 9:00 AM | Hang Bona

Palawan Peacock-Pheasant, A Striking Bird With Iridescent Blue-Green Plumage And Mohawk

The peacock-pheasant of Palawan is a magnificent bird. Its iridescent blue-green plumage and Mohawk make it stand out wherever it goes. The creature’s black underbelly and white stripes above (and below) the eyes add to its allure.

The peacock-like tail with distinctive patterns on this bird is quite striking.

Female Palawan peacock-pheasants have a dull grey-brown tint, unlike males with dazzling characteristics.

The island of Palawan in the southern Philippines is home to this lovely bird species. They enjoy dense vegetation and reside on the ground.

Seeds, berries, nuts, fruit, insects, worms, and slugs are all eaten by Palawan peacock-pheasants.

When the mating season begins, male birds present females with food. If the female birds accept, the male will put on a show, fanning his tail and compressing his wings to display his beautiful plumage.

Female birds lay two eggs on the ground, which they incubate for 18 to 20 days. They’ll keep feeding the hatchlings until they’re completely grown.

Due to habitat destruction, the number of Palawan peacock-pheasants has rapidly declined in recent years (over-exploitation and deforestation). The Palawan Islands have recently been designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

This bird has also been captured for the pet trade and hunted for meat, resulting in a population reduction. It’s presently on the verge of extinction.