The Red Junglefowl is a vibrant and colorful bird, considered the wild ancestor of the domestic chicken. Males are particularly striking, with glossy, metallic plumage in shades of red, orange, and green, and long, flowing tail feathers. They also have a prominent red comb and wattles, which are used to attract mates. Females, on the other hand, are more subdued in appearance, with brown and buff feathers that provide camouflage in the underbrush. Both sexes have grayish legs and feet, which aid in navigating their forested habitats.

This species is native to the forests of South and Southeast Asia, with populations found in India, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Red Junglefowl prefer dense tropical and subtropical forests, bamboo thickets, and grasslands. They often dwell near forest edges and cultivated areas, adapting well to habitats with ample cover. While they are primarily ground-dwellers, they roost in trees at night for protection from predators.

Red Junglefowl are omnivores, feeding on a variety of seeds, fruits, insects, and small invertebrates. They are social birds, typically found in small groups led by a dominant male, and they communicate using a range of vocalizations, including the familiar crowing sound. During the breeding season, males perform elaborate displays to attract females, often engaging in competitive “crowing duels” and aggressive displays to establish dominance and secure mates.