The Red Junglefowl is a tropical species found across Southeast and South Asia. These colorful birds are a primary ancestor of the modern domestic chicken. It is believed that the chicken was domesticated approximately 8000 years ago, with genes from the three other existing species of junglefowl also contributing to our farmyard familiar.
Male Red Junglefowl can be recognized by their long, dark iridescent tail feathers, golden hackles, and flashy, fleshy red comb and wattles. Females are smaller and have a cryptic plumage for camouflage.
Red Junglefowl can be found in a variety of tropical and subtropical habitats, including mangroves, forest, and cultivated land. Their diet is varied; they find food by scratching at the ground and picking at food items like seeds, fruits, ants, termites, and more.
Today’s new Birdorable is one of four species of junglefowl in the world. It’s the Red Junglefowl, and the 750th bird species on Birdorable! The Red Junglefowl is an exotic tropical species with a familiar look, due to it being a primary ancestor of... Read more »
