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A Complete Guide to Rearing & Feeding Peafowl (Peacocks) in the UK
Peafowl—commonly called peacocks (males) and peahens (females)—are prized for their stunning plumage and striking presence. Whether you’re keeping them for ornamental value, breeding, or simply as part of a diverse smallholding, providing the right nutrition and care is essential for healthy, vibrant birds.
Key Nutritional Needs
Peafowl require a balanced diet high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, especially during their early life and moulting periods. Their nutritional needs change as they grow, and a good feeding regime is key to strong growth, colourful feathers, and successful breeding.
- Protein: Essential for growth and feather quality (especially for young and moulting birds)
- Vitamins & Minerals: Particularly vitamin A, D, E, calcium, and phosphorus
- Grit: Helps with digestion, especially if birds are not free-ranging
Types of Feed by Life Stage
Chick Crumb (0–6 weeks):
- Fine, high-protein (24–28%) crumb suitable for peafowl chicks
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals for strong early growth
- Feed little and often to encourage eating
Grower Pellets (6–20 weeks):
- Slightly larger pellet, protein around 18–20%
- Supports steady growth, feather development, and immune health
- Gradually transition from crumb to pellets to avoid digestive upset
Adult/Breeder Pellets (20+ weeks):
- Maintenance or breeder diets with protein around 14–16%
- Breeder pellets contain extra calcium for laying hens
- Supplement with mixed grains, greens, and occasional treats (e.g., mealworms, fruit), but keep these to a minimum
Grit & Supplements:
- Offer insoluble grit or oyster shell, especially if birds are not fully free-range
- Vitamin and mineral supplements can be useful during stress, breeding, or poor weather
How to Feed
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Frequency:
- Chicks: 3–4 times daily
- Growers/Adults: 2 times daily
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Quantity:
- Follow manufacturer guidelines and adjust based on bird size and activity
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Water:
- Clean, fresh water should always be available
- Use drinkers that prevent contamination and are easy to clean
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Feeding Equipment:
- Shallow trays for chicks, raised feeders for older birds
- Clean equipment regularly to avoid mould and disease
Housing & General Care
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Space:
- Peafowl need plenty of room—ideally a large, secure run or free-range area
- Overcrowding leads to stress and health issues
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Shelter:
- Dry, draught-free housing with perches for roosting
- Protect from predators and extreme weather
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Enrichment:
- Peafowl are intelligent and inquisitive; provide space to roam, dust bathe, and forage
Health & Biosecurity
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Cleanliness:
- Keep housing, feeders, and drinkers clean
- Remove waste regularly to prevent disease
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Worming & Parasites:
- Regular worming is recommended, especially for birds on grass
- Watch for mites, lice, and other parasites
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Biosecurity:
- Limit contact with wild birds and rodents
- Quarantine new birds before introducing them to your flock
Common Feeding Mistakes & FAQs
- Mistake: Feeding only grain—peafowl need a balanced, complete feed
- Mistake: Not providing enough protein, especially for chicks and moulting birds
- Mistake: Overfeeding treats, leading to imbalanced diets
FAQs:
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Can I feed peafowl chicken feed?
Not ideal—peafowl, especially chicks, need higher protein than standard chicken layers feed. -
Do peafowl need grit?
Yes, particularly if not free-ranging. -
How long do peafowl stay on chick crumb?
Usually up to 6 weeks, then gradually introduce grower pellets.
Product Recommendations & Internal Links
Explore our full range of peafowl & peacock feeds, suitable for every life stage—from chick crumb to adult breeder pellets. We also stock grit, supplements, and all the essentials to help your birds thrive.