Feeding habits and roosting preferences of Indian peafowl ( Pavo Cristatus ) in Ludhiana district (Punjab)

Abstract

The present study was carried out to assess the feeding habits and roosting preferences of Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus) at Punjab Agricultural University Campus, Ludhiana (Location I) and Village Baranhara, Ludhiana (Location II) from March 2016 to February 2017. Indian Peafowl had showed preference for plant parts like flowers, leaves and fruits of wide ranging cultivated crops and indigenous trees. It was further recorded that the preference of food items depended upon the local crops, scrub vegetation and uncultivated areas. Roosting was noted on indigenous trees at location I as compared to buildings/ roofs at location II. Indian Peafowl mainly used tree species such as Eucalyptus, Pear, Poplar, Lasura, Amaltas, Peepal, Jamun, Mango, Banyan, Pilkhan, Dhek for roosting. Analysis of feeding habits and roosting preferences will be both for conservation initiatives for Indian Peafowl and to minimize the conflict with farmers.