A colorful flock of Indian peacocks has been spotted wandering the streets of Errol Heights in Southeast Portland for over a decade, according to local residents.
Since at least 2007, these striking birds have become an iconic part of the neighborhood, even appearing in Google Maps street views.
How these non-native birds made their way from their natural habitats in Southeast Asia to Portland remains a mystery.
Nevertheless, locals have embraced the quirky presence of the peafowl, with bird enthusiasts occasionally visiting the hilly area for a glimpse of the vivid plumage, leading to minor traffic congestion in a typically quiet residential community.
While the peacocks are visually stunning, their loud calls can be particularly disruptive during the spring and fall mating seasons, echoing through the night with their high-pitched squawks.
Male peacocks flaunt lustrous blue feathers and long tail plumes used in their mating displays, captivating human observers, though many would likely prefer the aesthetics to the din.
The charm of the peacocks frequently shows up in Portland’s Reddit channels and local media, often accompanied by humorous comments about lost birds.
The earliest documented mention of these exotic birds in Portland appeared in a 2013 article by the Associated Press, noting an initial trio of peacocks roaming neighborhoods near 41st Avenue and Woodstock Boulevard.
Birdwatching experts note that peafowl do not fall under the care of wildlife protection organizations, like the Audubon Society, which is now known as the Bird Alliance of Oregon, due to their non-native status.
Brodie Cass Talbott, an engagement manager at the Bird Alliance of Oregon, emphasized that protecting native species should be a priority.
“Peacocks are omnivorous,” Talbott explained, “and they can prey on small animals, potentially threatening ground-nesting birds and their young.”
Additionally, their droppings raise concerns as potential disease vectors for other birds.
While peacocks are easy to domesticate, experts caution that they do not make suitable pets due to their raucous behavior and frequent waste.
This can lead to owners losing them, allowing the birds to roam freely, especially in areas where they face few predators.
To safeguard native bird populations, residents are encouraged to minimize outdoor lighting and keep cats indoors rather than worrying excessively about the wandering peacocks.
Talbott noted that urban areas present multiple risks to birds, citing window collisions as another significant threat.
“Peacocks, while not beneficial, are not our primary concern,” Talbott stated.
Originating from regions in India and Sri Lanka, Indian peacocks are surprisingly resilient, adapting well to colder climates and enjoying lifespans that can exceed a decade, with the ability to produce numerous offspring.
Their presence is so prevalent in states like California and Florida that discussions about how to manage these populations have emerged due to increasing visibility and potential conflicts.
A particular resident of Errol Heights shared that the peacocks have transformed from fascinating wildlife to an everyday sight, akin to squirrels or crows.
What truly bothers her are the tourists drawn to the area in search of the vibrant birds, which has become a noteworthy aspect of neighborhood life.
In conclusion, while the peacocks may not fit Portland’s ecological profile, their colorful lifestyle and unique presence continue to spur discussions and interest among residents and visitors alike.
Correction: This article has been updated to reflect the accurate name of the Bird Alliance of Oregon.
image source from：oregonlive
