Thiruvananthapuram: There has been a significant increase in the peacock population in the state since 1998, according to a new report. This discovery comes from a study conducted by 13 organizations, including the Wildlife Institute and the World Wildlife Fund. The study reveals that the peacock population in the state has surged by 150 percent since 1998. The report states that 19 percent of the state’s land area has now been transformed into a favorable habitat for peacocks. Previously restricted to Idukki, Wayanad, Thrissur, and Palakkad districts, peacocks are now found in all districts.
The Wildlife Studies Department at Kerala Agricultural University notes that the proliferation of peacocks is a natural indication of Kerala transitioning into a drier state. Since 1963, the peacock has held the status of India’s national bird and has been protected, contributing to its population growth. Experts estimate that by 2050, the peacock population may exceed 40 percent.
Peacocks typically inhabit dry, rocky, and bushy areas, thriving in environments with dry climates and abundant food sources. According to experts at the Kerala Forest Research Institute, this population increase may lead to up to 45 percent crop damage in the future
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