Victoria's Riflebird

The Victoria's riflebird, a diminutive yet striking member of the bird-of-paradise family, measures a modest 23–25 cm in length. The male is adorned with an iridescent purple sheen that transitions to blue-green on the head and a more bronze hue on the lower breast. A velvety black throat is set off by a dazzling metallic green and blue triangular patch at its center. In contrast, the female is distinguished by a pale eyebrow and buff underparts, subtly barred with brown.

Identification Tips

To identify the Victoria's riflebird, look for the male's iridescent purple plumage and the distinctive green and blue throat patch. Females are more subdued in color but can be recognized by their pale eyebrow and the faint barring on their underparts.

Habitat

This bird-of-paradise is endemic to the Atherton Tableland region of northeastern Queensland, Australia, where it is a year-round resident.

Distribution

The Victoria's riflebird is found exclusively in the Atherton Tableland region of northeastern Queensland, Australia.

Behaviour

During the breeding season, the male Victoria's riflebird performs a captivating display. He erects the feathers of his throat and sides, showcasing the bright colors of his plumage in the dappled sunlight of the rainforest. With wings arched above his body and head tilted back, he moves side to side in an almost mechanical dance. The female, drawn by the male's raspy 'yaars' call, which softens during the display, approaches and engages in a synchronized wing-raising ritual, culminating in copulation.

Song & Calls

The male's call, a raspy 'yaars', is used to attract the female and becomes softer and more melodious during his display.

Breeding

The Victoria's riflebird's breeding display is a visual spectacle, with the male showcasing his iridescent plumage and engaging in a ritualistic dance to woo the female.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Victoria's riflebird includes insects and fruits. They exhibit a unique behavior when eating fruit, holding it with one foot and skillfully peeling it with their bill.

Conservation status

The Victoria's riflebird is currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and is included on Appendix II of CITES, indicating that it faces a high risk of endangerment in the wild.