Artificial peacock breeding holds significant development potential, offers substantial economic returns, and presents a promising market outlook. The following are the key techniques involved in the breeding process:
I. Breeding and Rearing of Peacocks
1. Housing and Enclosure
Peacocks are sensitive to disturbances and require a quiet, clean, and dry environment. Sudden noises or high-frequency sounds can cause stress, leading to panic, loud screams, and even reduced egg production and fertility. Therefore, the farm should be located in a calm area with good lighting, dry housing, and ample space for movement. Each bird should have approximately 8 square meters of space, with one-third shaded and two-thirds open for exercise. A 2.5-meter-high netting should cover the top of the enclosure, while the base should be secured with iron mesh or dense bamboo strips. Perches at about 1.3 meters above the ground are essential for peacocks to rest. To maintain dryness and provide sand bathing, a 3–5 cm layer of grit should be laid on the floor. Shade trees can also be planted outside the enclosure.
2. Breeding and Management
Peacocks have a strong metabolism and vibrant plumage. Males can grow up to 1.1 meters long in their tail feathers, while their wing feathers reach 35 cm in length. Proper nutrition is crucial. They are omnivorous, consuming grains, insects, eggs, and vegetation. During egg-laying periods, they are fed a mix of chicken, sorghum, peas, green beans, and occasionally mealworms or cooked duck eggs. Clean water, health sand, and daily portions of chopped greens like leeks and elephant grass should be provided. Adult males weigh 4.5–5.5 kg, females 4–4.5 kg, with an average daily intake of 250 grams. Their feed should contain 18–20% crude protein and 2800–3000 kcal/kg of energy. Peacocks are generally docile but some males may display aggression, requiring careful handling to prevent injuries. Annual deworming and vaccination against Newcastle disease are recommended before winter.
3. Mating and Reproduction
Peacocks typically begin laying eggs at 22–24 months. Egg-laying occurs between March and August, with an annual yield of 28–35 eggs. For optimal fertilization, the male-to-female ratio should be 1:2–3, avoiding multiple males in the same pen to prevent fights. Peacocks have a lifespan of 5–6 years, with declining fertility over time. Mating usually occurs in the early morning and late afternoon, with males displaying their feathers and females responding with courtship calls. Eggs are laid in shaded areas, often in nests made from straw or old tires. Regular checks before 10 PM help reduce contamination.
4. Hatching
Peacocks have weak natural hatching abilities, so hens or incubators are commonly used. Peacock eggs weigh 100–110 grams and require careful handling. When using hens, 3–4 eggs can be placed per hen. Manual turning twice daily is essential during the first 27 days. Incubators should maintain a temperature of 37.5°C and humidity of 65–70%. In the early stages, eggs should be turned hourly to ensure even heat distribution. After 25 days, transfer to a hatchery at 37°C and 75% humidity. If hatchlings fail to emerge, gentle assistance is required to help them break free. Records must be kept, and temperatures and humidity adjusted accordingly.
5. Brooding Chicks
Newly hatched chicks are kept in incubators at 30–31°C for the first 1–3 days, gradually reducing to 28°C as they age. Water with 0.4% potassium permanganate is offered first, followed by chick feed and mealworms. Chicks thrive on mealworms. At 1–2 weeks, they are housed in multi-tiered cages at 10 chicks per square meter. As they grow, the density decreases. Sterilized sacks should be placed at the bottom of cages, and fresh water with multivitamin B should be available. Green feed is introduced after 8 weeks, and vaccinations are administered at 5 weeks.
6. Rearing Young Birds
At 8 weeks, young peacocks are moved to rearing farms with 30 square meters per pen, housing 10–12 birds. Coarse sand is laid for sand baths, and feed is gradually increased with seeds, beans, and occasional cooked duck eggs. Chopped greens and health sand are provided daily. By 6 months, they are ready for meat production, yielding a 75% slaughter rate and a meat-to-bone ratio of 1:4. At 1.5 years, they mature and are selected for breeding based on physical traits and behavior. The male-to-female ratio remains 1:2–3, with controlled feeding to avoid obesity.
II. Disease Control
Peacocks are naturally resistant to many diseases due to their wild origins. However, maintaining a clean, dry environment and regular sanitation is essential. Common diseases include Pasteurellosis, internal parasites, and stress-related issues. Preventive measures include adding terramycin to feed, administering levamisole hydrochloride tablets for worms, and vaccinating against avian diseases. Stress management is critical, as peacocks are easily startled. Other issues such as blackhead disease, ringworm, vitamin deficiencies, and foreign body injuries require prompt attention and proper care.
In summary, successful peacock breeding involves careful housing, nutrition, mating management, hatching techniques, and disease prevention. With proper care and attention, peacock farming can be both profitable and sustainable.