Great Argus (Argusianus argus) in Khao Sok National Park
The Great Argus is one of the most striking birds in Southeast Asia due to its impressive size and extravagant plumage. Males are known for their long tail feathers, which can reach up to 1.7 meters in length, and intricate eye-like patterns on their secondary wing feathers.
Great Argus (Argusianus argus) in Khao Sok National Park
Common Name: Great Argus
Scientific Name: Argusianus argus
Family: Phasianidae (pheasants)
Description
The Great Argus is one of the most striking birds in Southeast Asia due to its impressive size and extravagant plumage. Males are known for their long tail feathers, which can reach up to 1.7 meters in length, and intricate eye-like patterns on their secondary wing feathers. These birds display a rich brownish color with complex markings of black, white, and blue-gray.
Male Features: The male has elongated tail feathers and vivid ocelli (eye spots) on its wings used during courtship displays to attract females.
Female Features: Females are smaller and less ornate, with shorter tails and more subdued coloration, making them well camouflaged in the forest.
Habitat
The Great Argus inhabits the dense lowland rainforests of Southeast Asia, including Khao Sok National Park. It prefers areas with thick undergrowth where it can forage for food and engage in courtship displays.
Location in Khao Sok: Found in the deep forests, often near trails or undisturbed areas. Sightings are rare, as these birds are shy and elusive.
Diet
The Great Argus feeds on a variety of forest foods, including fruits, seeds, small invertebrates, and occasionally small animals. They forage on the forest floor, scratching through leaf litter to uncover food.
Behavior
Males are known for their elaborate courtship dance. They clear an area of the forest floor and perform an impressive display, fanning out their wings and tail to reveal the eye-like patterns while making a series of calls to attract females.
Mating Ritual: The male’s display is one of the most spectacular bird performances, often taking place during the breeding season. Males may use the same display area for years.
Flight: The Great Argus is not a strong flyer and prefers to stay on the ground, walking through the underbrush.
Conservation Status
Although the Great Argus is not currently endangered, habitat loss due to deforestation poses a threat to its population. The preservation of rainforests like those in Khao Sok is crucial to ensuring the survival of this species.
Interesting Facts
The species is named after Argus, a figure in Greek mythology who had 100 eyes, in reference to the "eye" patterns on the male’s wings.
The male Great Argus has one of the most impressive and longest tails in the pheasant family.
The Great Argus adds to the rich biodiversity of Khao Sok National Park, making it a sought-after species for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
