Lawes's Parotia

The Lawes's parotia, Parotia lawesii, presents a striking figure in the avian world. Males are resplendent with a velvet black plumage, contrasted by a shimmering silvery white crest on the forehead. Their nape glows with an iridescent purple-blue sheen, while their breast plumes boast a radiant golden green. These breast feathers are not merely pigmented but are structurally colored, creating a dazzling display of bright blue-green and orange-yellow hues that shift dramatically with the bird's movements. The female, while more subdued in coloration, is nonetheless distinguished by her brown plumage, dark head, and yellowish-brown underparts barred with dark markings. Both sexes share a remarkable feature: the inside of their mouths is a vivid lime color, a detail not commonly seen in the avian kingdom.

Identification Tips

To identify the Lawes's parotia, look for the male's distinctive white crest and the iridescent colors on the nape and breast. The female can be recognized by her brown coloration and barred underparts. The bird's eyes can exhibit varying shades of blue and yellow, reflecting its mood.

Habitat

This species is endemic to the mountain forests of southeast and eastern Papua New Guinea, where it thrives in the dense canopy.

Distribution

The Lawes's parotia is found exclusively in Papua New Guinea, favoring the high-altitude forests that cloak the region's rugged terrain.

Behaviour

The Lawes's parotia is known for its polygamous nature, with males engaging in elaborate courtship displays. They spread their elongated black flank feathers like a skirt and utilize their ornamental head wires and vibrant plumage to captivate potential mates.

Breeding

While detailed breeding information is scarce, the few eggs that have been studied suggest a size of about 33 x 24 mm. These measurements, however, may represent smaller specimens within the species.

Similar Species

The Lawes's parotia is often compared to the western parotia (Parotia sefilata), and at times, the eastern parotia is considered a subspecies of P. lawesii.

Diet and Feeding

A diet rich in fruit, seeds, and arthropods sustains the Lawes's parotia, allowing it to flourish in its forested habitat.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Lawes's parotia as Least Concern, indicating a stable population within its natural range. It is also listed on Appendix II of CITES, reflecting international agreement on its protection.