Peacocks have long, irridescent tails that cover more than 60% of their total body length. They utilize these vibrantly hued plumes to attract females in a fanning courtship ritual, or ‘peacock mating dance.’
Experts believe that females (called peahens) pick their mates based on size, color and feather quality. Peacocks typically have blue and green feathers with distinct colorful ‘eye’ markings.
In this video clip below, a peacock spreads his feathers and struts his stuff in an effort to entice a nearby peahen:
Did you know that peacocks aren’t the only species in the animal kingdom with interesting mating rituals? Male hippos will actually fling their feces to convey their reproductive health. Mosquitoes will ‘sing’ to females with their wings. And some scientists claim that dinosaurs had elaborate courtship rituals, like the pterosaurs, a flying lizard that attracted mates with their magnificent crests and sails.
Check out Caught in the Act on Wednesdays at 9P et/pt to see more video clips of animals’ bizarre behaviors!
Photo and Video Credits: Jodi Kendall