What Is a Bird of Paradise?

The San Diego Zoo website states that 42 known species of the bird of paradise exist. The birds, known for their beautiful appearance and dazzling courtship behavior, live in New Guinea, Northeast Australia and on islands in that part of Oceania.

Size

The size of the various bird of paradise species ranges from the 3.5-foot long black sicklebill to the six-inch long king bird of paradise. The heaviest is the curl-crested manucode, which weighs in at just under a pound.

Features

The males of the species typically possess brilliant plumage while the females will be a drab shade of brown. The males develop elaborate plumes, quills, skirts of feathers and tails that garner the attention of the females during mating courtship dances.

Effects

The attractive feathers of the species almost doomed it, as it was hunted and the feathers often exported. The birds of paradise bordered on extinction until laws formulated in the 1920s put a stop to exporting the feathers.

Considerations

After mating, the males of most types of birds of paradise will go in search of another partner. Meanwhile, the female will build the nest and raise the chicks by herself.

Diet

The dietary habits of these birds are somewhat of a mystery, but scientists feel most eat fruit. Other birds of paradise will capture and consume insects, frogs, seeds and even small birds.

References

• San Diego Zoo: Birds:Bird of Paradise