Malay Peninsula (almost exclusively south of Isthmus of Kra) in extreme southern Burma, southern Thailand and Peninsular Malaysia. Possibly extinct in Thailand. Sumatra has traditionally been included in species' distribution, but there is no evidence to support this claim.
Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is 2,500 - 9,999 (2010) and decreasing.
Status VU
Lowland forest clearance and modification for cultivation, hunting are the major threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Voice
Male territorial call is a loud, slow, melancholy 'puu pwoii', the second note more drawn and rising. Also, sudden explosive cackle, running to throaty clucks: 'tchi-tchi-tchao-tchao wuk-wuk-wuk-wuk-wuk'.
Malayan Peacock-Pheasant (Polyplectron malacense) [XC192490]
by Mike Nelson from Taman Negara, Sungai Relau, Merapoh, Pahang, Malaysia (song)
Malayan Peacock-Pheasant (Polyplectron malacense) [XC603181]
by Ding Li Yong from Jelebu District (near Simpang Pertang), Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia (call)
Similar Species
Warmer brown than extralimital Grey Peacock-pheasant (Polyplectron bicalcaratum), with greener ocelli, long, dark green-glossed crest, blacker crown and hindneck, darker ear-coverts (contrast with pale surround), orange-pink facial skin and plainer underparts. Female, smaller and shorter tailed, with very short crest, blacker and more pointed ocelli, indistinct paler scaling above, more uniform underparts and yellower facial skin.
References
See References.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet