Brown-headed Paradise Kingfisher

The Brown-headed Paradise Kingfisher, also known as the Russet Paradise Kingfisher, is a striking avian species belonging to the Alcedinidae family. This bird is adorned with a vivid red bill and elongated tail streamers that add to its allure. The plumage is a kaleidoscope of colors, with a warm rufous-brown head, mantle, and scapulars, while the rump, breast, and belly boast a pink-red hue. The flight feathers are a stark black, contrasted by bright blue greater coverts, and the tail is a dark purplish blue. The legs and feet are either pink or orange, completing the bird's vibrant appearance.

Identification Tips

When observing the Brown-headed Paradise Kingfisher, look for a bird approximately 23 cm in length, not including the tail streamers which can add up to 9 cm. The bird's weight ranges from 37 to 50 grams. Both sexes share a similar appearance, making them indistinguishable in the field. The combination of the red bill, long tail streamers, and distinctive coloration makes this species relatively easy to identify.

Habitat

This kingfisher is endemic to the lowland forests of the Bird's Tail Peninsula in Papua New Guinea. It thrives in temperate forests and subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, preferring the dense primary forests of foothills.

Distribution

The species is found in the deep forest areas of eastern New Guinea, with an altitudinal range from 300 to 1000 meters. In certain regions, such as around Popondetta, it can be observed at altitudes as low as 150 meters, often more frequently than the Common Paradise Kingfisher.

Behaviour

The Brown-headed Paradise Kingfisher is known to forage on the ground, where it skillfully captures insects, its primary food source.

Diet and Feeding

Its diet consists mainly of insects, which it hunts on the forest floor. The type specimen was collected in the Milne Bay area of Papua New Guinea, providing insight into its feeding habits within its natural habitat.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Brown-headed Paradise Kingfisher as Least Concern, indicating that, currently, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers that would warrant a higher risk category.

In the forests of Papua New Guinea, one may be fortunate enough to encounter this resplendent bird, a true jewel of the forest. With careful observation, the Brown-headed Paradise Kingfisher can be a memorable highlight for any birdwatcher traversing these verdant habitats.