Archbold's Bowerbird

Archbold's bowerbird, a medium-sized songbird, presents a dark grey plumage with a black bill, grey feet, and a brown iris. Males can reach up to 37 cm in length and are characterized by narrow black scalloping on their plumage and a hint of golden yellow on the crown feathers. Their dark grey forked tail is notably shorter than their wings. Females, while similar in appearance, are distinguishable by their smaller size, a yellow patch on their wings, and the absence of crown feathering.

Identification Tips

To identify Archbold's bowerbird, look for the male's unique black scalloping and the subtle golden yellow on the crown. The female can be recognized by her smaller stature and the distinctive yellow wing patch. Both sexes share the dark grey coloration and brown iris, which can aid in identification.

Habitat

This species is endemic to the highland forests of Western New Guinea, where it resides amidst the dense foliage.

Distribution

Archbold's bowerbird is found exclusively in the highland forests of Western New Guinea, indicating a very specific and localized range.

Behaviour

Archbold's bowerbird is known for its remarkable behavior of collecting shed ornamental plumes from the King of Saxony bird-of-paradise to adorn its courtship bower, a testament to its elaborate mating rituals.

Breeding

The male Archbold's bowerbird meticulously decorates its bower with plumes from other bird species, particularly the King of Saxony bird-of-paradise, to attract a mate.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species currently evaluates Archbold's bowerbird as being of Least Concern, suggesting that, for now, the species does not face immediate threats to its survival.