Twelve-wired Bird-of-paradise

The Twelve-wired Bird-of-paradise, known scientifically as Seleucidis melanoleucus, is a striking creature of the avian world. Males are resplendent with velvet black and vibrant yellow plumage, measuring approximately 33 cm in length. Their eyes are a piercing red, and they sport a long black bill. Along their flanks, they boast rich yellow plumes from which twelve blackish, wire-like filaments elegantly extend, curving forward over their hindquarters. Females, by contrast, are more subdued in coloration, presenting a brown hue with black-barred buffy underparts. Both sexes have robust, large-clawed feet of a delicate pink shade.

Identification Tips

To identify the male Twelve-wired Bird-of-paradise, look for the distinctive twelve wire-like filaments that trail from its yellow side plumes. The female can be recognized by her brown plumage with buffy underparts barred in black. The red iris is a key feature in males, while the strong, pink feet are notable in both sexes.

Habitat

This species is a denizen of lowland forests, favoring the flat lowlands and swamp forests as its primary habitat.

Distribution

The Twelve-wired Bird-of-paradise graces the forests of New Guinea and Salawati Island in Indonesia with its presence.

Behaviour

Males perform an elaborate display dance known as the wire-wipe display to attract females. This dance showcases their flank plumes and bare pigmented thighs. During the display, males use their namesake twelve wires to gently brush across the female's face and foreparts, a unique form of courtship among birds.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Twelve-wired Bird-of-paradise is varied, consisting mainly of fruits and arthropods. They also consume frogs, insects, and nectar, showcasing their adaptability in foraging.

Conservation status

The Twelve-wired Bird-of-paradise is currently evaluated as 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 immediately threatened, it must be monitored to prevent future endangerment.