The Malayan peacock-pheasant (Polyplectron malacense), also called the crested or Malaysian peacock-pheasant, is found only in peninsular Malaysia.
Scientists estimate that there are no more than 10,000 individuals left in the wild. The species is listed as endangered and has already disappeared in neighbouring Thailand.
Warsaw Zoo officials said the chick is healthy and remains under the care of its mother. To ensure peace and reduce stress, the aviary’s large free-flight hall has been temporarily closed to visitors.
For now, the birds can be observed through windows from the corridor of the bird pavilion.
“This is another success for Warsaw Zoo’s aviary," staff wrote in a post on social media. “The chick follows its mother everywhere and often hides under her tail. Our pair has been breeding regularly for several years, and this year we are the only zoo where a chick of this species has hatched.”
Warsaw Zoo is one of only four worldwide where the birds can be seen.
The aviary, designed to mimic a tropical jungle and allow birds to fly freely, is the only facility of its kind in Poland. It will be reopened to visitors once keepers decide conditions are safe for the rare chick and its mother.
The Malayan peacock-pheasant belongs to the pheasant subfamily within the grouse family (Phasianidae). It lives in the undergrowth of dense forests, feeding mainly on insects and their larvae.
While most of its plumage is grey-black, its back and tail feathers display striking eye-like markings, reminiscent of a peacock's tail.
(rt/gs)
Source: polskieradio24.pl