Grey Peacock-Pheasant
Ocellated subtropical peacock-pheasant.
Overview
The Grey Peacock-Pheasant is native to subtropical and tropical regions of Southeast Asia, particularly northeastern India and Burma. Its natural habitat includes evergreen and deciduous forests, often in hilly or mountainous terrain. The species has adapted well to these environments, evolving distinctive plumage that aids in camouflage and display.
Throughout its history, the Grey Peacock-Pheasant has been known for its striking appearance, particularly the iridescent ocelli on its plumage, which resemble eyes. This characteristic, common among peacock-pheasants, plays a significant role in courtship rituals. While primarily a wild species, captive breeding efforts have been undertaken to study and conserve its population.
Origins
Tracing back to Northeast India / Burma, the Grey Peacock-Pheasant earned its place in the lineage of pheasants through generations of selection — a slow conversation between climate, husbandry, and human eye. Ocellated subtropical peacock-pheasant.
Temperament
Custodians describe the Grey Peacock-Pheasant as generally shy and reclusive; can be wary of human presence..
Conservation
Current status: Not formally tracked · rarity tier Uncommon. Working populations remain in the hands of a small global network — 0+ of them keep programmes on Best of Breed alone.
Grey Peacock-Pheasant, in photographs.
A living plate — community submissions and high-resolution photographs from Wikimedia Commons, sorted by clarity.