Blue Bird-of-paradise

The blue bird-of-paradise, Paradisornis rudolphi, stands as a testament to nature's flair for the dramatic. This large bird-of-paradise, the sole representative of its genus, is often celebrated as one of the most spectacular avian species on the planet. Males are adorned with magnificent flank feathers and distinctive long tail wires, a visual feast unique to their sex.

Identification Tips

Males of this species boast a glossy black body contrasted by silver-white crescents around the eyes, a feature shared with females. Their crow-like bill is a pale grey, and the head and mantle shimmer with a reddish gloss. The wings and tail are a resplendent blue, varying in hue from light to aqua. The male's most striking attributes are the elongated, silky flank plumes, amber on top and light blue beneath, and the elongated tail wires tipped with white spatules. Females, while lacking the male's ornate plumes and wires, share the vibrant blue wings and tail but have a chestnut-brown underside with black barring.

Habitat

The blue bird-of-paradise inhabits the lush rainforests of New Guinea, favoring the canopy where it can forage and display.

Distribution

This species is endemic to the island of New Guinea, with two recognized subspecies: P. r. margaritae in east-central New Guinea and P. r. rudolphi in the southeast.

Behaviour

The blue bird-of-paradise is a solitary feeder, with females and juveniles occasionally joining other birds or species in the canopy. They forage at higher altitudes for fruits and descend to lower levels when hunting animal prey.

Song & Calls

During courtship displays, males produce a soft, insect-like buzzing interspersed with chittering sounds to maintain the attention of the female.

Breeding

Males perform a solitary and mesmerizing courtship display, hanging upside down and showcasing their blue plumes and tail wires in a fan-like arrangement. Females solely undertake nesting and rearing duties, constructing the nest and fiercely protecting their brood.

Similar Species

The blue bird-of-paradise can be confused with other Paradisaea species, but its unique coloration and display features set it apart.

Diet and Feeding

This species primarily consumes fruits such as figs, drupes, and berries, but also supplements its diet with insects and small vertebrates like reptiles.

Conservation Status

The blue bird-of-paradise is classified as Near Threatened due to habitat loss, hunting for its plumes, and a declining population estimated between 2,500 to 10,000 individuals. It is listed in Appendix II of CITES.