The brown sicklebill is a species of bird-of-paradise that is found in the mountain forests of New Guinea.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Occupies upper montane and mossy forests, forest edges, and sometimes older secondary growth. It forages from the midstory to canopy, often around fruiting trees and epiphyte-laden branches. Males maintain traditional display perches within well-forested ravines and ridges. The species favors intact, humid, high-elevation forest but can persist in lightly disturbed areas near primary habitat.
Altitude Range
1200–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The brown sicklebill is a bird-of-paradise of New Guinea’s high montane forests, notable for the male’s long, downcurved bill and rich brown plumage with metallic sheen. Males perform showy perch displays and broadcast loud, ringing calls that carry through the forest. Females are more cryptic and do all nesting duties. Although locally affected by forest loss, the species remains widespread in suitable highland habitat.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense forest
Social Behavior
Generally solitary; males defend display perches and perform visual and vocal displays to attract females. Breeding is polygynous, with males not involved in parental care. Females build a nest, typically in dense vegetation, and raise the single chick (occasionally two) alone.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, ringing whistles and metallic notes delivered in repeated series, often from an exposed perch. Calls can be far-carrying and are central to display behavior, interspersed with harsher scolds when alarmed.
Plumage
Male is dark chocolate-brown with subtle glossy, metallic blue-green sheen on head and upper breast; female is warm brown with dense buffy barring below and a more patterned appearance.
Diet
Eats a mix of fruits (especially drupes and figs) and arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, and spiders. It uses its long bill to probe epiphytes, moss, and bark crevices. Occasionally takes small vertebrates or other invertebrates when available. Seasonal fruit availability influences foraging routes and time spent at fruiting trees.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the midstory and canopy of humid montane forest, along ridgelines and at forest edges. Frequently visits fruiting trees and epiphyte-rich branches where insects are abundant.
