Raising Peafowl: What You Need to Know

by Kara F

Published April 23, 2025

Peafowl are some of the most elegant and striking birds you can add to your property. Known for their vibrant plumage and dignified presence, they are both beautiful and functional, serving as pest controllers and alert systems for predators. If you’re considering raising peafowl, Meyer Hatchery offers a variety of juvenile pairs that are perfect for getting started.

Why Keep Peafowl?

Peafowl are more than just beautiful birds – they are versatile and rewarding animals to raise. Here are a few reasons to consider adding peafowl to your flock:

  • Stunning Appearance: With their vivid feathers and distinctive patterns, peafowl are sure to stand out in any setting.
  • Natural Pest Control: Peafowl are excellent foragers, helping to keep insect populations under control.
  • Guardians of Your Homestead: Their loud calls can serve as a natural alarm system, alerting you to potential predators or visitors.
  • Ornamental Appeal: Peafowl bring an air of elegance to any property, making them a favorite for those looking to enhance their outdoor spaces.

Varieties of Peafowl at Meyer Hatchery

Meyer Hatchery offers four stunning varieties of juvenile peafowl pairs, all ranging in age from 3-4 months to one year old:

  • Java Green Peafowl: Renowned for their shimmering green and gold plumage.
  • India Blue Peafowl: The most recognized variety, featuring deep blue and iridescent green feathers.
  • White Peafowl: A rare and ethereal breed with entirely white plumage.
  • Black Shoulder Peafowl: A unique variety with dark shoulder markings that contrast strikingly against their lighter plumage.

Our juvenile pairs range from 3-4 months old up to a year old, making them a great choice for anyone wanting healthy, well-started birds.
While we do not anticipate a loss, Meyer Hatchery does cover losses of properly cared-for birds that arrive deceased or that pass in the first 48 hours after arrival. Losses must be reported within 72 hours of arrival. To report a loss with a recent order, fill out our Loss Reporting Form.

Essentials of Peafowl Care

Although peafowl have relatively low maintenance compared to other ornamental birds, they do require specific care to thrive.

Housing and Space

  • Adequate Space: Peafowl need plenty of room to roam and forage. A secure outdoor area protects them from predators. When looking at space, don’t forget to take into account how noisy peafowl can be – they can make loud calls, honks, and crying sounds and have been known to make those sounds at night too.
  • Roosting Structures: Peafowl prefer to roost off the ground, so provide sturdy perches within their housing. If you live where winters are are cold they will need good, draft-free housing for protection.

Diet and Nutrition

  • Base Diet: A high-protein game bird feed is essential, particularly for growing and breeding peafowl.
  • Foraging: Allowing access to insects, seeds, and greens enhances their diet.
  • Supplements: Occasional treats like grains or vegetables can provide variety.

Health and Maintenance

  • Parasite Control: Regular checks for external and internal parasites, like mites and worms, are important.
  • Cleanliness: Keep their living environment clean and dry to prevent health issues.
  • Veterinary Support: Establish a relationship with a vet experienced in game birds for routine care or emergencies.

Behavior and Social Needs

Peafowl are social birds, thriving in pairs or small groups. During the breeding season, peacocks (males) display their magnificent tail feathers to attract peahens (females). Breeding pairs will require a calm environment and adequate space for raising chicks.

Interested in Brooding Peachicks? Check out our Help Desk Article on Peafowl Brooding 101.

Are You Ready to Add Peafowl to Your Flock?

Peafowl are beautiful birds that are fascinating and rewarding to raise. At Meyer Hatchery, we make it easy to start your journey with peafowl by offering healthy, juvenile pairs that are already well on their way to becoming majestic adults.

Take the first step toward owning these extraordinary birds by exploring our selection of peafowl today. Your backyard will never be the same!

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