Raising peacocks is as easy as raising chickens.

DONG THAP Each peacock species has its own morphological characteristics, color, and economic value, serving diverse needs ranging from ornamental purposes and conservation to ecotourism.

In Tan Dong commune, Dong Thap province, Truong Van Phuc (born in 1984, commonly known as Thanh Phong) is one of the pioneering farmers who has successfully raised many rare peacock species.

Peacocks at the farm of Mr. Truong Van Phuc (Thanh Phong). Photo: Minh Dam.

Currently, his farm maintains a total flock of about 200 peacocks, including many different breeds such as blue peacocks, white peacocks, multicolored peacocks, flowered peacocks, and some rare mutated varieties such as gray peacocks, "gold" peacocks, and purple peacocks…

According to Mr. Phuc's experience, peacocks are relatively easy to raise if breeders master the basic techniques. From cage design and nutrition to disease prevention, everything can be applied similarly to raising chickens. Those who have experience raising chickens can certainly switch to raising peacocks.

Newly hatched chicks need to be fully vaccinated against common diseases such as avian cholera, fowl cholera, and avian influenza; the coop must be cleaned and disinfected regularly.

Because they are wild animals, peacocks are less susceptible to some common diseases; however, if raised in high densities, they may peck at each other, affecting their plumage and aesthetic value, so it is necessary to pay attention to maintaining a reasonable stocking density.

Peacocks adapt well to a wide range of ecological zones, from North to South Vietnam. In fact, peacocks have been successfully raised in many ecotourism areas and special-use forests such as U Minh and Nam Cat Tien.

Peacocks are very easy to care for, not much different from caring for chickens. Photo: Minh Đảm.

Due to the scarcity of breeding stock and the high cost compared to common poultry, peacocks are not yet widely raised on a commercial farm scale. Furthermore, peacocks are wild animals, and some species, such as the yellow-cheeked peacock and the white-cheeked peacock, are under state management. Therefore, breeders need to complete all necessary registration and permit procedures with local authorities and specialized agencies under the Department of Agriculture and Environment before raising them.

Not only raising peacocks, Mr. Phuc has also successfully bred many other specialty livestock such as seven-colored pheasants, Dong Tao chickens, and Indonesian black chickens. To date, the total farm size has reached approximately 1,000 individuals, with peacocks and seven-colored pheasants being two species particularly favored by the ornamental animal market, nurseries, and eco-tourism areas.

Phuc shared: “I chose to raise rare and valuable livestock breeds with the hope of both contributing to genetic conservation and developing a sustainable economy. This model requires technical knowledge, patience, and initial investment, but once it's stable, the results are very clear.”

Currently, the selling price of a pair of adult peacocks ranges from 15-20 million VND. Specialty chicken breeds such as Indonesian black chickens and Dong Tao chickens also fetch prices from several hundred thousand to several million VND per bird. Thanks to this, his business generates billions of VND in revenue each year. In addition to supplying breeding stock, he also develops commercial farming, supplying chicken meat to high-end restaurants and specialty eateries inside and outside the province.

Peacocks' diets are similar to many other poultry, and breeders will receive thorough guidance from Mr. Phuc before starting the model. Photo: Minh Dam.

Alongside livestock farming, Mr. Phuc researched and bred a sweet, mild-flavored pink passion fruit variety that is resistant to pests and diseases and suitable for the climate of Go Cong Dong. Nearly 1 hectare of trial planting yielded a stable harvest, with prices 20-30% higher.

Taking advantage of his orchard and rare birds, he built an ecotourism model, offering agricultural experiences to attract visitors who come to tour, take photos, pick lemons, and enjoy them in the garden. According to the Tan Dong Commune Farmers' Association, Mr. Phuc is a skilled farmer, a dynamic young Party member, and was honored as an "Outstanding Vietnamese Farmer" in 2016.

Source: https://nongnghiepmoitruong.vn/nuoi-chim-cong-de-nhu-nuoi-ga-d789338.html