I first saw a peacock in the North East hamlet of Shekomeko, 20 or 25 years ago, possibly while riding my bike. It was crossing the road, and I stopped to take a picture. I still have the memory — and maybe even the photo, somewhere.
This May, I saw them again.
I volunteer with Meals on Wheels in Millerton and was delivering food to someone in need. As I pulled into a driveway on the Shekomeko route, I noticed two white birds near the edge of the property. “Those are peacocks, aren’t they?” I asked myself. They had no tail plumage, but the small crests on their heads gave them away. They weren’t especially eye-catching, not enough to warrant a photo. I made the delivery and headed back for the climb over McGhee Hill.
On the return trip, though, there they were again — only this time, two full-color peacocks stood right in the road.
I switched on my hazard lights and crept forward, taking a handful of pictures. A woman pulled out of a nearby driveway. From her smile and raised eyebrows, I could tell they weren’t her birds. As we passed, she simply said, “Beautiful.”
It turns out the first pair I saw were peahens, the less colorful females. The second were the showy males. It’s mating season, I’ve since learned, and they’re especially active this time of year. But they stay in the area all year long.
Peacocks aren’t known for their intelligence, and a few have met unfortunate ends on the road. Their call is loud and unmistakable — something in between a honk and a meow. I couldn’t tell if one was squawking at me or calling to its companion.
Later, I found out they belong to Dr. Barbara Clayton, a local veterinarian who has about 20 peafowl. They can live up to 30 years. Barbara also keeps chickens, two miniature donkeys, a miniature horse, three cats, five dogs, and nine parrots. The peacocks roam freely through the neighborhood, often nesting in neighbors’ gardens. If someone finds an unattended egg, they usually return it to Barbara, who tucks it into a nest with one of her other birds.
When a chick hatches, it stays with that bird in isolation until they’re properly acquainted. “They’re family-oriented,” Barbara said. “They take care of each other.”
Barbara told me that there has been a case of a peacock raising a chicken and also of a chicken raising a peacock.
Shekomeko doesn’t see much traffic, and for now, there’s no need for “Peacock Crossing” signs. But if you’re driving through, keep your eyes open. You just might see something beautiful.
Chronicles is The New Pine Plains Herald’s memoir series, chronicling life in and around Pine Plains, Ancram, Gallatin, Milan, and Stanford. The Herald welcomes stories from readers that highlight memories and lived experiences from all people of all backgrounds. Send your submissions to editor@newpineplainsherald.org.