On Friday, August 7th, 2026, UN Geneva received a gift of five young peacocks from India, marking a continuation of a tradition of keeping these birds on the grounds that predates both the United Nations and its predecessor, the League of Nations. The peacocks, four classic blue and one rare white 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 birds have been named yet, but a competition to suggest names will be launched soon. She noted, “We are very happy to welcome five new peacocks, four blue, one white in typical United Nations colours: blue and white. They will stay here for the next three months…and then they will be allowed to move freely and enjoy the hospitality of the Ariana Park.”

Arindam Bagchi, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of India to the UN, expressed pride in the donation, calling it “a privilege for the Indian mission here to be able to donate five peacocks, ‘Pavo cristatus’, to [UN Geneva].”

Dr. Tobias Blaha, Director of Geneva Bioparc, whose organization will oversee the birds’ care, said there is every hope the peacocks will enjoy their new habitat. He described it as “a dream habitat for them because they don't need to be kept in an aviary for a long time,” highlighting the presence of old trees, shade, flowers, and grass areas.

Laetitia Menin, Facilities Management Officer at UN Geneva, explained that since all five peacocks are males hatched this year, they should establish their social order and are unlikely to run off in spring when hormones rise and females arrive.

This event reflects a unique cultural and diplomatic gesture linking India and the United Nations, while preserving a historical tradition at the Palace of Nations.

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