Nature
2020.12.05 14:18 GMT+8

Bird-of-paradise: The talented dancer that loves showing off

Updated 2020.12.05 14:18 GMT+8
By Xu Chenlu

Most of the birds are known for their incredible twittering, but the bird-of-paradise is not one of those. Even if it doesn't have a sweet voice, the bird is still considered one of the most beautiful winged creatures on earth.

The bird-of-paradise belongs to the family Paradisaeidae, which has 42 species in 15 genera. Its name originates in the idea that this beautiful bird comes from paradise. Mainly distributed in the tropical forests of New Guinea and the surrounding islands, the bird is best known for the colorful plumage of males, and the 'dance' some species perform when the males are trying to catch the females' attention.

A raggiana bird-of-paradise showing its plumage. /VCG

The mating rituals of many bird-of-paradise species are one of the hottest topics among birdwatchers, as the males try their best to show their beautiful plumages just as dancers show their costumes to the audiences.

A male Victoria's riflebird "dancing" to show itself in Queensland, Australia. /Gettyimage

Though the population of most bird-of-paradise has been stable, there are still several species listed as endangered due to hunting and habitat loss.

About 'Melody of Birds'

"Melody of Birds" is a series of pictures about lovely birds in the world. Stay tuned to see more charming bird photos under the theme.

For more:

Long-tailed tit: A 'drop-dead gorgeous' bird on social media

Hoopoe: Beautiful bird with smelly defense

Guinea Fowl: The best security guard you can employ

Does forever love really exist?

Atlantic puffin: Clown of the sea

Meet the bird with a half-moon crest on its head

Melody of Birds: Beautiful birds and fantastic flowers

Melody of Birds: Cooling down in summer

An impressive bird with an enormous shoe-shaped bill

(Cover image: A Wilson's bird-of-paradise. /VCG)

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