Kevin the Peacock – the flamboyant feathered local who strutted off from his home near Magnolia Nature Reserve in Ashingdon – has been leading his owners and amused Essex residents on quite the love-fuelled chase.
On a mission to find a girlfriend, Kevin slipped away from his cosy enclosure and has since made his way through Ashingdon, Hockley, and into Rayleigh, stopping along the way to enjoy the hospitality of unsuspecting locals.
He’s been spotted sunbathing on garden loungers, helping himself to bowls of pet food, and posing confidently for curious neighbours who’ve been documenting his every move.
“Kevin is having quite the holiday! We’ve been chasing his tail for days!” said his owners, who are keeping spirits high despite the lengthy peacock pursuit.
In a bid to tempt him home, they’ve now introduced not one, but two female peacocks to the garden. The year-old sisters are already settling into Kevin’s home territory – though he seems unaware of the surprise awaiting him.
“Kevin’s new girlfriends have been settling in at home,” his owner added. “They are 1-year-old sisters. What a lucky boy he will be.”
Despite their best efforts, Kevin is proving elusive. While peacocks aren’t typically known for long-distance flying, they can travel short hops – just enough, it seems, to keep one step ahead.
“Although these are not flight birds, Kevin does have the ability to fly short distances,” said the owners. “I hope with the sightings still coming in that one day we can find a way to get him back. Thank you for continuing to post his whereabouts.”
The community has been getting involved too. Local residents have shared sightings and support online, with many clearly fond of their unexpected avian visitor.
“Kevin thinks he’s living his best life and doesn’t realise what he’s missing at home!” said Ashleigh Cripps.
Another resident, Toni Dare, sent a hopeful message: “Kevin! Your lady friends await!”
Even Southend’s Vulcan Bomber aircraft, famously grounded at Southend Airport, got in on the fun: “Kevin, I know how you feel. I can’t fly either but I do have a lovely hangar to rest in! Hope you get home soon & meet your girlfriends.”
Kevin’s escapade isn’t entirely unexpected during mating season. Male peacocks, or peafowl, often set out in search of a mate if they’re left without company. Their courtship behaviour is famously flamboyant – from fanning out their iridescent tail feathers into an impressive semicircle, to shaking them in a vibrant dance, all designed to impress a peahen.
The size and colour of a peacock’s tail play a big role in courtship, with females more likely to choose a male with a longer train and more vivid eye-spots. It’s no surprise, then, that Kevin is eager to put his best feathers forward.
His story has even sparked suggestions for a children’s book – with fans imagining a tale of adventure, independence, and love, starring the dashing Kevin as he searches for someone who truly appreciates his dazzling display.
Kevin’s owners are still asking for help from the public. If you catch sight of him in your garden or neighbourhood, you’re encouraged to share his location with them on their Facebook page.
With a bit of luck – and perhaps some well-timed flirtation from his new housemates – Kevin might soon be convinced to return home.
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