Wilson's Bird-of-paradise
Image: Hubert Linden (cc0)
NameWilson's Bird-of-paradise
Common NameWilson's Bird-of-paradise
Scientific NameCicinnurus respublica
FamilyParadisaeidae
Wingspan (cm)24
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsMales are spectacular with a bare, sky-blue crown marked by a black cross-pattern, a black head and upper back, a bright yellow mantle, and a crimson-red back and rump. Their wings are dark brown, and they possess two central tail feathers that curl into green-blue spirals. The underparts are dark olive-brown. Females are much duller, predominantly olive-brown overall, with a darker head and paler, barred underparts, providing camouflage.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of harsh, raspy 'wrah-wrah-wrah' notes, often given rapidly. They also produce soft whistles, buzzing sounds, and a distinctive 'ch-ch-ch-ch' call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, rainforest, lowland forest, hill forest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to the islands of Waigeo and Batanta, located off the coast of West Papua, Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesMale's bare blue crown with black cross-pattern, Male's crimson-red back and bright yellow mantle, Male's two curled, spiral central tail feathers, Extreme sexual dimorphism (males vibrant, females dull), Small size for a bird-of-paradise
Description
The Wilson's Bird-of-paradise is a small, strikingly colorful passerine known for its extreme sexual dimorphism. Males display an extraordinary bare blue crown and vibrant plumage, performing elaborate courtship dances to attract females. They are typically found foraging in the lower to mid-canopy of dense rainforests.
