The standardwing bird-of-paradise, also known as Wallace's standardwing or as the standardwing, is a species of bird-of-paradise. It is the only member in monotypic genus Semioptera.
Region
North Maluku, Eastern Indonesia (Wallacea)
Typical Environment
Found on the islands of Halmahera, Bacan, and nearby islets in the North Maluku province. It inhabits primary and secondary lowland and hill rainforest, often frequenting forest edges and ridges. Males select open canopy display sites where their white standards are most visible. The species tolerates some habitat disturbance and can occur in selectively logged forest. However, extensive deforestation reduces suitable lekking and nesting sites.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called Wallace's standardwing, this bird-of-paradise is the only member of the monotypic genus Semioptera. Males are famous for two pairs of long, white 'standards' that sprout from the wings and are raised dramatically during display. They perform communal leks on prominent canopy perches. Females are the sole nest builders and caretakers.
Semioptera wallacii wallacii male. Museum specimen
Temperament
shy but active; males conspicuous at display sites
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches; agile within the canopy
Social Behavior
Males gather at traditional leks on elevated branches to display, raising and fluttering their white standards while calling. The species is polygynous; females choose mates and then nest alone. Nests are cup-shaped and placed on branches or in forks, with clutches typically of one to two eggs. Outside the breeding season, individuals are usually solitary or in small loose groups at fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include sharp, metallic notes and nasal calls given repeatedly during displays. At leks, males produce a series of whistles and harsh phrases that carry through the canopy.
