Rachael has a degree in Zoology from the University of Southampton, and specializes in animal behavior, evolution, palaeontology, and the environment.View full profile Rachael has a degree in Zoology ...

The peacock’s tail is a classic example of an overly exaggerated, sexually selected trait that comes at a cost -- all that elaborate plumage must slow them down, right? That's not the case according ...

When it comes to mating, male animals show off the flashiest of ornaments to convince females of their suitability. A peacock's ornate tail may be the best-known example of a mate-attracting ornament, ...

Everything about the peacock, including its enormous tail, awkward body shape, and hefty size of up to 13 pounds, suggests a species poorly suited for flight. In fact, their elaborate tails account ...