Peacock Population Surges to Historic High in Urban Habitats Across India
NEW DELHI, INDIA — In a remarkable development, the national bird, the peacock, has achieved an unprecedented population growth in urban and suburban areas across India. According to a joint survey released today by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Wildlife Institute of India, peacock numbers in 15 major cities have surged by 42 percent since 2020.
The report attributes the increase to expanded green cover in metropolitan regions, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, alongside successful conservation programs and a reduction in illegal poaching. Survey data indicate that peacock sightings in parks, residential colonies, and near water bodies have risen by 68 percent over the past three years.
Officials stated that the phenomenon, while encouraging, requires careful management to prevent human-wildlife conflict, as birds have been reported damaging ornamental plants and crops in peri-urban areas. The Ministry has launched a public awareness campaign titled "Feathers in the City" to promote coexistence.
The survey confirms that the peacock, known for its iridescent plumage and distinctive courtship dance, now maintains stable breeding populations at 230 urban locations nationwide. This resurgence is seen as a key indicator of improving ecosystem health in rapidly developing urban landscapes.