Peacocks are beautiful, exotic birds that have become increasingly popular as pets and for ornamental purposes over the past few years. However, peacocks require specialized care and housing, so it’s important to understand all the costs involved before deciding to purchase one. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about how much peacocks cost.
Upfront Costs of Purchasing a Peacock
The upfront cost to purchase a peacock can range quite a bit depending on the age, variety, and source of the bird:
- Baby Peafowl Chicks – $30 – $50 per chick. Buying baby chicks (called peachicks) is the most affordable way to purchase a peacock. However, not all peachicks will survive to adulthood.
- Juvenile Peafowl – $80 – $150 each. Buying a juvenile bird between 3-12 months old reduces some of the risk and uncertainty involved with caring for hatchlings.
- Adult Breeding Pairs – $400 – $1,500 per pair. Mature adult pairs ready for breeding are the most expensive option. The cost varies greatly depending on the peacock variety and plumage colors.
In addition to the cost of purchasing the peafowl themselves, buyers will also need to pay transport fees if buying from an out-of-state breeder and have their birds shipped. Transport costs are often extra and not included in the bird’s purchase price.
Essential Housing and Enclosure Costs
Peacocks require specialized outdoor housing with enough space to roam. At a minimum, plan to spend:
- Large Enclosed Run – $300 to $1,500 An enclosed run should allow at least 10-20 square feet per adult peafowl. Expect runs to cost $15 – $30 per square foot to install.
- Shelter/Coop – $300 to $600 A sturdy, predator-proof shelter should have perches and nest boxes for sleeping and egg-laying.
- Fencing – $8-$15 per linear foot The entire enclosure, including any outdoor runs, needs to be fenced to keep peacocks inside and predators out. Chain link fencing from 4-6 feet tall is commonly used.
Many homeowners spend well over $2,000 setting up proper outdoor peafowl enclosures with coops, runs, and fencing. These costs can vary widely based on materials and size.
Yearly Care, Vet, Feed, and Misc Costs
In addition to the base cost of purchasing and housing pet peacocks, buyers should be prepared for recurring annual costs including:
- Feed – $50 – $100 per bird annually Commercial game bird feed is best to meet peacocks’ nutritional requirements
- Veterinary Care – $100 – $500+ per bird Routine vet visits for checkups, deworming medication, and illness/injury treatment
- Enrichment & Supplies – $50 – $150 per bird
Perches, brushes, bathing pools, toys, and other supplies - Predator Protection – $100+ per year Methods to protect against natural predators like foxes and coyotes
When totaled, the first year cost of safely keeping pet peacocks often exceeds $1,000 per bird when factoring essential housing, feed, vet care, and other ownership costs. Beyond the initial purchases, owners should budget several hundred dollars per peacock every year for proper care and maintenance.
How Maximum Plumage Affects Peacock Prices
A peacock’s bright, iridescent plumage is one of its most beautiful and desirable traits. However, not all peacocks develop the distinctive long, colorful tail feathers known as a “train.”
There are a few reasons why some peacocks lack a full plumage train:
- Age – Peacocks don’t reach their peak plumage until age 3+ years.
- Genetics & Variety – Certain peafowl breeds are more likely to develop fuller trains than others. White and blue Indian peafowl tend to have the best plumage.
- Stress or Poor Nutrition – Environmental factors also impact feather development.
Due to these variabilities, buyers can expect to pay significantly more for mature adult peacocks showcasing maximum plumage with long, lush trains compared to juveniles or birds with less impressive feathering.
The price difference can be substantial. For example, a standard blue Indian adult peacock with partial plumage may cost $200. An equivalent mature specimen boasting a five-foot train could sell for $2,000 or more.
Maximizing plumage quality takes years along with optimal genetics, diet, and care. As a result, the most beautifully feathered peacocks demand hefty premiums.<table> <tbody> <tr> <th>Peafowl Age and Description</th> <th>Average Cost Per Bird</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Baby Peachicks</td> <td>$30 – $50</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Juvenile 3-12 months old</td> <td>$80 – $150</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Adult Pair, average feathers</td> <td>$400</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Mature Adult with full plumage</td> <td>$1,500+</td> </tr> </tbody> </table>
Conclusion
Peacocks require significant upfront and ongoing investments to house safely and responsibly. From habitat enclosures to frequent veterinary exams, first-time buyers face costs of well over $1,000 per bird in the first year alone.
The wide variability in pricing boils down to the age, variety, and feathering quality differences between individual peafowl. Mature adults showcase peak plumage demand the highest premiums, especially those exhibiting long, vibrant tail feathers reaching four feet or beyond.
While certainly not cheap pets, peacocks bring beauty and exotic flair to backyards across the country. Understanding their specialized care requirements and associated costs allows prospective buyers to prepare and set realistic expectations before adding these majestic birds to the family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much space do pet peacocks need?
Peacocks require about 10-20 square feet of enclosed outdoor space per adult bird. This allows room to roam and exercise. Sections of covered shelter are also recommended.
Do peacocks make good house pets?
Peacocks should not be kept exclusively indoors. They have complex housing requirements best met by outdoor aviaries with coops and runs. Portable enclosures may work for backyard urban flocks.
What do peacocks eat?
Commercially available game bird diets and poultry feeds provide the best nutrition. You can also supplement with fresh fruits/veg. Clean, unfrozen water should be available at all times.
How long do pet peacocks live?
In captivity with good care and nutrition, peafowl can live 15+ years. Some have reached 20 to 25 years old. Lifespans average 5-7 years in the wild.
Can peacocks be kept with chickens?
Yes, peafowl and chickens often cohabitate well. Ensure your enclosure meets all species requirements and supervise carefully for signs of competition or aggression. Supplemental feeding stations may be needed.
