The Congo peafowl, also known as the African peafowl or mbulu by the Bakôngo, is a species of peafowl native to the Congo Basin. It is one of three peafowl species and the only member of the subfamily Pavoninae native to Africa. It is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.
Region
Congo Basin
Typical Environment
Found in primary and secondary lowland rainforests of central and eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. It favors dense understorey, vine tangles, and areas near forest streams and swampy depressions. The species uses forest clearings and edges for foraging but avoids open savanna. It is highly localized and patchily distributed where suitable intact forest persists.
Altitude Range
300–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Congo peafowl is the only peafowl native to Africa and one of just three peafowl species worldwide. Males lack the long, eyed train of Asian peafowl, sporting instead a short tail and an upright crest. Known locally as the mbulu, it inhabits dense Congolian rainforests and was only described to science in the 20th century. It is sensitive to hunting and habitat loss, making it a flagship species for Congo Basin conservation.
Female head
Male head
Female at the Milwaukee County Zoological Gardens
Male at the Oklahoma City Zoo
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs within dense forest, often remaining close to cover. Believed to be largely monogamous, with ground nests concealed in thick vegetation. Clutches are small, and adults are highly attentive, leading chicks through understorey while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include low, resonant hoots and muffled booming notes that carry through the forest. Both sexes may give harsh cackles or alarm calls when disturbed. Drumming wing sounds can accompany short escape flights.
