He erects the specialized upper tail coverts (the train) by lifting the actual tail feathers underneath, which act as a support strut. The train opens into a . The iridescent eyespots (ocelli) become fully visible.
He vibrates his feathers rapidly, creating a shimmering effect. This isn't just visual; it creates a low-frequency "infrasound" that humans can’t hear but females can feel. peacock mating behavior
The iconic "tail" of the peacock is actually called a train, consisting of highly elongated upper tail coverts. This biological ornament is the primary tool for courtship. He erects the specialized upper tail coverts (the
Peafowl are polygynous—one male mates with multiple females. Males do not help raise chicks. He vibrates his feathers rapidly, creating a shimmering
He slowly rotates his body (180–360°) while keeping the fan facing the peahen. This allows her to view the eyespots from all angles. If she moves, he reorients to keep the fan between them.
They spend the winter months regrowing the feathers to be ready for the next year’s competition.
When a peahen enters his territory, the male orients his body facing away from her, then turns his back to her—counterintuitively. This presents his train in full view.