The peacock, largest of the pheasants, is native to
Sri Lanka and India. It is often the male of the species that is shown in
photographs, showing the beautiful plumage. Hence the simile "proud as a
peacock". The female (pea hen) lacks the beautiful ornamental feathers or
the bright coloring.
Although native to Sri Lanka, the peacock population
has gone down considerably, for, at one time it was considered a delicacy and
peafowl were hunted down indiscriminately. Pea fowl are tamed quite readily,
and sometimes can be seen in the lawns of some of the hotels, and bigger
private residences.
For Hindus in Sri Lanka, peacock holds a special place
too, for Skanda the God of Katharagama sits with his
wives astride a peacock. Lord Vishnu, one of the major Gods, also is often
shown with a peacock in the background.
No comments:
Post a Comment