The King of Saxony bird-of-paradise is a bird in the bird-of-paradise family (Paradisaeidae). It is the only member of the genus Pteridophora. It is endemic to montane forest in New Guinea.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in upper montane and mossy forests, forest edges, and secondary growth across the central ranges of New Guinea. It favors ridgelines and canopy gaps where males maintain display perches. Birds are most often encountered in the mid- to upper canopy but will descend to fruiting trees. The species tolerates some habitat disturbance provided mature forest patches remain.
Altitude Range
1500–2850 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking bird-of-paradise is the only member of the genus Pteridophora and is famed for the male’s extraordinary pair of ultra-long, enamel-blue head plumes used in elaborate courtship displays. It inhabits montane forests of New Guinea and is typically seen at high elevations. Males often display from prominent canopy perches, where their plumes can be raised, waved, and clicked to attract females.
Illustration of male
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides
Social Behavior
Polygynous; males maintain solitary display perches rather than true leks, performing complex visual and acoustic displays. Females select mates and then nest alone, building cup nests in concealed sites. Outside breeding, birds are typically solitary or in loose associations around fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The male gives loud, ringing and metallic notes interspersed with sharp ticks and buzzes during display. Sequences can be prolonged and repetitive, carrying far across the canopy.
