A group of peafowl is called a muster because the word historically means a gathering. The term dates back to Middle English and comes from the Latin monstrare, meaning “to show” or “to display.” And that’s where it fits peafowl beautifully. When peafowl gather, particularly during breeding season, it can look very much like a ceremonial assembly. Males fan out their tail feathers in full display, presenting themselves as a worthy mate. A muster captures both the act of gathering and the spectacle of showing off. This blue peacock was photographed in Bandhavegarh National Park in India. Nikon D300 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 200mm) ISO 800, f/7.1 at 1/125th of a second.
What a beautiful shot: that brilliant iridescent blue against that nearly monochrome background! The whole scene feels very unexpected — which makes for a perfect photo! Kudos.
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Stunning!
I remember this shot well and the oddness of seeing a peacock in its natural setting rather than running around free at a zoo.
What a beautiful shot: that brilliant iridescent blue against that nearly monochrome background! The whole scene feels very unexpected — which makes for a perfect photo! Kudos.
Thanks Laura, I have this one hanging in my office as a metal print.