Greater Bird-of-paradise

Overview

Greater Bird-of-paradise (Paradisaea apoda) is a species of Birds-of-paradise (Paradisaeidae) in the order Perching Birds (Passerines). A legendary bird with iridescent green and gold plumes; males perform acrobatic dances with fanned wings and floating plumes to attract females; the name 'paradise bird' reflects its supposed celestial origin; endemic to New Guinea.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Paradisaea; binomial: Paradisaea apoda; authority: Linnaeus, 1758. Typical size: 30-43cm (incl. decorative plumes). Average lifespan: 5-10 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: Australasia.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

Includes novaeguineae; treat as monotypic (Beehler & Pratt 2016).