The great argus (Argusianus argus) is a species of pheasant from Southeast Asia.
Description
The great argus is a brown-plumaged pheasant with a blue head and neck, rufous red upper breast, black hair-like feathers on the crown and nape, and red legs.
Unusual among Galliformes, the great argus has no uropygial gland.
The male clears an open spot in the forest and prepares a dancing ground. He announces himself with loud calls to attract females, then he dances before her with his wings spread into two enormous fans, revealing hundreds of "eyes" while his real eyes are hidden behind it, staring at her.
Breeding
Despite displays similar to polygamous birds and though the great argus was thought to be polygamous in the wild, it has been discovered that it is actually monogamous. The hen lays only two eggs.
Distribution and habitat
The great argus is native to the jungles of Borneo, Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula in southeast Asia.
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