Bird of Paradise Habitat
Bird of Paradise species are relatively large birds best known for the colorful plumage sported by mature males. These bird species sport a variety of colors, from blue to green to brown, and live in species-specific habitats throughout areas of the South Pacific.
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Distribution
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Thirty-eight of the more than 40 species of birds of paradise reside in New Guinea and nearby islands. Other species live in the tropical regions of Indonesia, northern Australia and the Moluccas Islands.
Environment
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Tropical forest is the main habitat for most species. They typically rely on dense, humid rainforest or other woodland or wetland areas.
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Altitude
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Many bird of paradise species occupy specific, altitude-controlled habitats, which allow closely related species to avoid competition for food and resources.
Aviaries
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Birds of paradise have never been bred successfully in captivity. Their colorful plumage and the long tail feathers on the males of many species make them a popular attraction, but they are rarely seen in any but the largest aviaries.
Habitat Loss
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Because of their limited ranges, deforestation threatens many species' habitats. Scientists and environmental advocates are concerned because New Guinea rainforest continues to be lost to logging, agriculture and development. Though no bird of paradise species is currently endangered, continued habitat loss could lead to eventual extinction.
Fun Fact
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The bird of paradise, besides being concentrated in New Guinea, has been used in ceremonial headdresses and other cultural decorations by the people of New Guinea for centuries. Because the bird is such an integral part of life on the island, it appears on the Papua-New Guinea flag.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Sujit Kumar, Doug Janson
