On Friday, August 7th, 2026, UN Geneva received five young peacocks as a gift from India, marking a continuation of a tradition that predates both the United Nations and its predecessor, the League of Nations. The birds, including four classic blue peafowl and one rare white-feathered male, were introduced during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at their new aviary in Ariana Park, the location of the UN’s European headquarters.

UN Geneva Director-General Tatiana Valovaya announced that none of the peacocks have been named yet, but a competition to suggest names will be launched soon. She expressed happiness in welcoming the birds, noting their colors reflect the typical United Nations blue and white. The peacocks will remain in the aviary for three months before being allowed to roam freely within Ariana Park.

Arindam Bagchi, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of India to the UN, described the donation as a privilege for the Indian mission. Dr. Tobias Blaha, Director of Geneva Bioparc zoo, which will oversee the care of the peacocks alongside UN staff, expressed optimism that the birds will adapt well to their new habitat, citing the presence of old trees, shade, flowers, and grass areas.

Laetitia Menin, Facilities Management Officer at UN Geneva, explained that since all the peacocks are males hatched this year, they are expected to establish their social hierarchy and remain in the area during the spring when hormones rise and females are present.

This tradition of keeping peacocks at the Palace of Nations grounds has historical significance, with records from 1954 during the Cold War noting a peacock hopping onto a Soviet delegation car, amusing photographers at the time.

Sources

UN News