Growling Riflebird

The growling riflebird, known scientifically as Ptiloris intercedens, is a medium-sized bird belonging to the family Paradisaeidae. The male of the species is resplendent with velvet black and green plumage, adorned with black flank plumes and a black curved bill. His mouth is a striking yellow, and his feet are blackish, with a dark brown iris. Notably, he boasts an iridescent greenish blue crown, throat, breast shield, and central tail feathers. The female, in contrast, presents a rufous brown coloration with barred buff on her underside.

Identification Tips

To distinguish the growling riflebird from its close relatives, one should note the male's lower breast and abdomen coloration, his distinctive growling song, and the feathered base of the culmen. These features set it apart from the magnificent riflebird, with which it is sometimes confused or considered a subspecies.

Habitat

This bird is endemic to the lowlands of easternmost Papua New Guinea, where it finds its home.

Distribution

The growling riflebird is a common species throughout its range in the lowlands of easternmost Papua New Guinea.

Behaviour

Males are polygamous and perform their courtship displays solitarily, a fascinating behavior to observe for any avid birdwatcher.

Song & Calls

The male growling riflebird is named for its distinctive growling song, a unique auditory experience for bird enthusiasts.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the growling riflebird consists mainly of fruits and arthropods, a typical fare for birds of paradise.

Conservation status

The growling riflebird is evaluated as being of least concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It is also listed on Appendix II of CITES, indicating that while it is not currently threatened with extinction, it must be monitored to ensure its populations remain stable.