A male Bird-of-Paradise, renowned for its extravagant plumage and impressive courtship rituals.
The Jewels of Tropical Forests
The Bird-of-Paradise family (Paradisaeidae) comprises some of the most spectacular and iconic bird species on the planet. Primarily native to the tropical forests of New Guinea and surrounding islands, these birds are world-famous for the extreme sexual dimorphism displayed by many males.
Their plumages boast vibrant colors, metallic iridescence, and extravagant feather ornaments – such as ribbons, filaments, capes, or fans – which they deploy in courtship displays of unparalleled complexity and beauty. These often choreographed rituals aim to attract females, who generally have more subdued plumage. Beyond their fascinating aesthetics, Birds-of-Paradise play an important ecological role in their forest ecosystems.
Our Ornithologist's Advice
By the Les-Oiseaux.com team, published September 15, 2025.
My personal advice: Witnessing a Bird-of-Paradise in full display is an unforgettable experience, but extremely rare and challenging. These exotic birds live in dense forests and are very discreet outside their display "arenas." If you have the chance to visit New Guinea, hire an experienced local guide who knows the display sites. Patience is your best ally, and be prepared to wake up very early! Focus on listening for their distinctive calls, which may lead you to them, but above all, respect their tranquility to avoid disturbing these vital rituals.
🌈 Become a Bird-of-Paradise Expert!
Fascinated by these tropical jewels? Subscribe to receive exclusive information about Birds-of-Paradise and the wonders of avian life.
No spam and easy unsubscribe.
Identifying Birds-of-Paradise: Diversity and Plumage
Birds-of-Paradise comprise a rich family of approximately 42 species, each possessing unique identification characteristics. Their sizes, weights, and plumages vary considerably, but a few general traits can help distinguish them.
Size: Varies from 15 cm (for the King Bird-of-Paradise) to over 100 cm (for some long-tailed species like Meyer's Sicklebill).
Weight: Ranges from 50 grams to about 450 grams.
Plumage: This is the most striking feature of this family. Males, in particular, boast bright, iridescent plumages (blue, green, red, yellow, deep black), often adorned with long ornamental feathers. These feathers can form dorsal capes, breast shields, crests, elongated wires, or ribbons, and are essential during courtship displays. Females are generally smaller and have much duller, more cryptic plumage, often in shades of brown, gray, or olive, which helps them camouflage during nesting.
Sexual Dimorphism: It is extremely pronounced in the majority of species, with males being far more ornate and colorful than females. This is one of the most extreme examples of sexual selection in the animal kingdom.
Beak and Legs: Beak shape varies between species, adapted to their diet (often frugivorous): some are long and curved (like the Sicklebills), others shorter and stouter. Legs are generally robust, adapted for arboreal life.
The Bird-of-Paradise family exhibits an incredible diversity of male plumage forms and colors.
General Dimensions and Characteristics
Given the great diversity within the Bird-of-Paradise family (over 40 species), it is difficult to give precise dimensions that apply to all. The following characteristics represent averages or observed extremes:
Length: Varies from 15 cm to over 100 cm (including tail feathers).
Weight: Varies from 50 g to approximately 450 g.
Wingspan: Not specifically documented for the entire family, but adapted for forest life.
Lifespan: Can reach 15-20 years in the wild for some species.
Each species has its own specificities in terms of size, weight, and ornaments, the latter often being the result of intense sexual selection.
The Call: A Diverse Symphony
The vocalizations of Birds-of-Paradise are as varied and complex as their plumages. They play a crucial role, often in conjunction with visual displays, to attract females and defend territories.
Calls can include melodious whistles, clicks, buzzing sounds, metallic screeches, and even imitations of other bird species or forest sounds. Some species emit very loud and resonant calls that can carry far through the dense forest. During courtship displays, males often produce specific series of calls and songs that accompany their movements and the showcasing of their feathers.
0:00 / 0:00
Behavior: Unforgettable Courtship Displays
The behavior of Birds-of-Paradise is dominated by the extraordinary complexity of their breeding rituals. Most species are polygynous, where one male mates with multiple females. Males do not participate in nest building or raising the young; their role is limited to attracting and mating with as many females as possible.
Courtship displays are the culmination of their behavior. They often take place on "leks" (communal display grounds) or on individual perches carefully cleaned and decorated. Males stage elaborate dances, synchronized movements, and postures that highlight their spectacular plumages. For example, the male Superb Bird-of-Paradise transforms its body into a broad black and iridescent fan, while the Prince Albert's Bird-of-Paradise deploys long cephalic plumes. Females carefully observe these demonstrations and choose the male they deem most impressive.
Their diet primarily consists of fruits, but they also consume insects, spiders, and occasionally small invertebrates, providing essential protein supplementation, especially during the breeding season. They forage for food in the canopy and understory of tropical forests.
After mating, the female alone builds the nest, typically cup-shaped, in trees or bushes. She lays 1 to 2 eggs, which she incubates and raises the young alone. Young Birds-of-Paradise develop their adult plumage and spectacular ornaments over several years.
Bird-of-Paradise Species: A Dazzling Diversity
The Paradisaeidae family is incredibly diverse, encompassing approximately 42 species with unique plumages and display behaviors. Males of these species, such as the famous Superb Bird-of-Paradise (Lophorina superba) known for its "smiley face" dance, the majestic Greater Bird-of-Paradise (Paradisaea apoda) with its long filamentous flank plumes, or the King Bird-of-Paradise (Cicinnurus regius), the smallest and one of the most colorful, exemplify the richness of this family.
The Ribbon-tailed Astrapia (Astrapia mayeri) with its incredible tail feathers over a meter long, as well as Prince Albert's Parotia (Pteridophora alberti) with its unique 'antenna-like' head plumes, also demonstrate the extravagant evolution of these birds. This variety of shapes, colors, and courtship rituals is the result of intense sexual selection, making each species an ornithological jewel.
For a complete list of all Bird-of-Paradise species, their scientific names, and distribution, you can consult our dedicated page here.
Habitat and Distribution: The Jewels of New Guinea
Almost all Bird-of-Paradise species are endemic to New Guinea and its surrounding islands, with a few species also found in northeastern Australia. Their geographical distribution is relatively restricted, making them particularly vulnerable to environmental changes.
They primarily inhabit tropical rainforests, ranging from lowland to montane forests. Each species may have specific habitat preferences, with some found in the canopy, others in the understory or near the forest floor. The integrity of these forest ecosystems is crucial for their survival. Most species are sedentary and do not undertake seasonal migrations.
Distribution Map
Conservation Status: A Family Under Watch
The conservation status of Birds-of-Paradise varies and is a major concern for some species. On the IUCN Red List, several species are classified as "Least Concern" (LC) due to relatively stable populations and extensive ranges. However, a significant number of species are considered "Near Threatened" (NT), "Vulnerable" (VU), or even "Endangered" (EN).
The main threats to Birds-of-Paradise include habitat destruction and fragmentation due to deforestation for agriculture, mining, and logging. Hunting for their ornamental feathers, although less widespread today thanks to prohibitions, remains a historical and sometimes current threat in remote areas. Climate change and invasive species can also put pressure on their populations. Conservation efforts, including the creation of protected areas and awareness programs, are essential to ensure the survival of these magnificent birds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the main characteristics of Birds-of-Paradise?
Birds-of-Paradise are a family of birds primarily known for the extreme sexual dimorphism of many species. Males display vibrant, iridescent plumages and spectacular ornaments (elongated feathers, barbs, crests) which they use in elaborate courtship displays to attract females, who typically have more subdued plumage.
Where do Birds-of-Paradise live and what are their preferred habitats?
They are almost exclusively native to New Guinea and its surrounding islands, with a few species found in northeastern Australia. They primarily inhabit tropical rainforests, from coastal lowlands to montane forests, often preferring dense canopies.
What do Birds-of-Paradise mainly eat?
Their diet is mostly frugivorous, consisting of juicy fruits. However, they supplement their diet with insects, spiders, and occasionally small vertebrates, providing crucial protein intake.
How do Birds-of-Paradise reproduce?
Bird-of-Paradise reproduction is characterized by complex, often polygynous mating systems. Males perform incredibly varied and sophisticated courtship displays to attract females. These rituals can include complex dances, specific vocalizations, and the display of their exuberant plumages. After mating, the female alone builds the nest, lays 1 to 2 eggs, and raises the young.
