There are many kinds of bird-of-paradise, all of which have truly beautiful displays, and most are found on the island of New Guinea. Forty types are known to biologists, all highly memorable because the plumage of the male birds is so wonderfully colourful. Particular kinds have highly elongated and elaborate feathers extending from the beak, wings and head, and give mating displays that can take your breath away. You are only ever likely to see them on film, though, because they mostly live in inaccessible, dense rainforest habitats.
The Greater Bird-of-paradise is the largest member in the genus Paradisaea, with males measuring up to 43 cm (17 in) (excluding the long twin tail wires). The female is smaller, at only 35 cm (14 in). The plumage of this species is also sexually dimorphic. The male has an iridescent green face and a yellow glossed with silver iridescence crown, head and nape. The rest of the body plumage is maroon-brown. The flank plumes, used in displays, are yellow at the base, turning white and streaked with maroon. The female has unbarred maroon brown plumage. In both sexes the iris is yellow and the bills blue
The Greater Bird-of-paradise is the largest member in the genus Paradisaea, with males measuring up to 43 cm (17 in) (excluding the long twin tail wires). The female is smaller, at only 35 cm (14 in). The plumage of this species is also sexually dimorphic. The male has an iridescent green face and a yellow glossed with silver iridescence crown, head and nape. The rest of the body plumage is maroon-brown. The flank plumes, used in displays, are yellow at the base, turning white and streaked with maroon. The female has unbarred maroon brown plumage. In both sexes the iris is yellow and the bills blue
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