Peacocks make Boskruin their home
There are over a dozen peacocks in the flock though more are born each year.
People have adopted peacocks, or is it vice versa, in Boskruin after living together for more than two decades.
“We moved here 21 years ago and the flock was already established,” said Boschkop Avenue resident Wendy Munitich.
“There are stories about who initially introduced them but none are verified. Most of them live wild on the koppie. A few of the less mobile birds have moved in with us as we feed them regularly. This is why they all congregate here in the mornings and evenings.”
One female – a peahen – seems to have adopted Munitich personally, leading her to believe the bird had lost its mother.
“Many people come past to photograph them and collect some feathers which they shed after breeding season. They are a bit of an institution here in Boskruin. They usually breed somewhere in the koppie and the mother will bring them over when they a are few weeks old. Sadly we lose some because of the drivers who use Boschkop Avenue as a through road and drive way too fast and with little regard for the various wildlife we have in the area.”
Some have also been lost to apparent poisoning, which Munitich believed was accidental rather than deliberate.
“They are aloof birds and somewhat regal, very noisy in the breeding season but the beauty of the males is unsurpassed, especially when in full display. I have counted eight males and five females in this flock but the babies will be hatching anytime now so that will change.”
Another resident, and environmental consultant, Candis Lubbe moved to Boskruin specifically for the wildlife and tranquillity of the area.
” There are rabbits and dassies living in the area because of the koppie and it is great to see them. Boskruin is central and very peaceful. The community ensures it is well-kept,” she said.
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