In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, the hosts dive into the fascinating world of peafowl, focusing on three main species: the Indian blue, green, and Congo peafowl. They discuss the elaborate mating rituals of these birds, emphasizing how the male's stunning iridescent train plays a crucial role in attracting females, who are selective in their choices. The episode also delves into the science behind the shimmering feathers and the unique calls of peafowl. Additionally, the hosts explore the historical significance of peafowl as symbols of status, their culinary uses throughout history, and the current conservation challenges, particularly for the green and Congo species, which are facing endangerment. To wrap up, a listener shares an interesting tidbit about Maine's ban on billboards.
