A peahen is a female peafowl, the less showy partner of the spectacular peacock. While male peacocks display those famous iridescent tail feathers with brilliant blues and greens, peahens wear more modest brown and gray plumage. This isn't an accident: peahens need camouflage to protect themselves and their eggs from predators while nesting on the ground.

The difference between peacocks and peahens demonstrates sexual dimorphism, when males and females of the same species look dramatically different. The peacock's flashy feathers help him attract a mate, while the peahen's quieter colors help her survive and raise chicks.

When people say “peacock,” they often mean peafowl in general, but technically they're only talking about the males. The next time you see those magnificent tail feathers at a zoo, remember there's probably a more practically dressed peahen nearby, casually amused by all the showing off.