Lesser bird-of-paradise

Overview

Wikipedia

The lesser bird-of-paradise is a bird-of-paradise in the genus Paradisaea.

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Distribution

Region

New Guinea and nearby islands

Typical Environment

Primarily inhabits lowland and hill rainforests, including secondary growth and forest edges. It favors the mid to upper canopy, often frequenting fruiting trees. Birds gather at long-used display trees in intact forest patches. It tolerates some disturbance but declines where large tracts of forest are removed.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1800 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size32–35 cm (body; much longer overall with elongated flank plumes)

Wing Span45–55 cm

Male Weight0.2 kg

Female Weight0.15 kg

Life Expectancy10 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Famed for its spectacular courtship, the male lesser bird-of-paradise gathers at traditional display trees to perform elaborate dances and show off its vibrant flank plumes. Females choose mates and alone build the nest and raise the young. Historically, its plumes were traded and used in ceremonial dress across New Guinea. Despite being locally common, it faces ongoing pressure from habitat loss and hunting.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active during displays; otherwise shy in dense canopy

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with quick hops between canopy gaps

Social Behavior

Polygynous and lekking: males congregate at display trees, each defending a perch to attract visiting females. Females select mates and handle all nesting and chick-rearing. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in concealed forks high in the forest.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Vocalizations include sharp, ringing notes and repeated whistles delivered from display perches. During courtship, males produce rhythmic calls interspersed with wing rustles and mechanical sounds.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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