Polyplectron chalcurum
The Sumatran Peacock-Pheasant, *Polyplectron chalcurum*, is a striking member of the pheasant family (Phasianidae), endemic to the montane forests of Sumatra, Indonesia. Males are characterized by their metallic bronze-green plumage, particularly on the back and wings, accented by a dark crown, rufous-chestnut underparts, and dark brown tail feathers adorned with iridescent blue-green ocelli (eye-spots). They measure between 46-56 cm in length, including a tail of 25-30 cm. Females are smalle...
Inhabits dense, evergreen primary and secondary submontane and montane forests, typically found between 800 and 2400 meters elevation in Sumatra.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on ants, termites, and grubs, supplemented with various seeds, berries, and small fruits gleaned from the forest floor.
This highly secretive and shy pheasant is primarily diurnal, though it is most active during the crepuscular hours of dawn and dusk. It typically forages alone or in pairs, scratching through leaf litter on the forest floor in search of food. Males engage in elaborate courtship displays to attrac...
The Sumatran Peacock-Pheasant is strictly endemic to the island of Sumatra, Indonesia, where its distribution is largely confined to the Barisan Mountains chain. Its range extends from the northernmost province of Aceh down to the southern tip in Lampung. This species exclusively inhabits submont...
Near Threatened
- The scientific name 'chalcurum' is derived from Greek, meaning 'bronze-tailed', referring to the male's iridescent tail coloration. - It holds the distinction of having the shortest tail among all species in the *Polyplectron* (Peacock-Pheasant) genus. - Unlike most other peacock-pheasants, whi...