Skip to main content

Bird of Paradise

GREATER BIRD-OF-PARADISE PROFILE.

The Greater Bird of Paradise (Paradisaea apoda) is endemic to the Papua, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. Known for its stunning beauty and plumage, this bird is a protected species under Indonesian law (P. 106/MENLHK/SETJEN/KUM.1/12/2018). Despite this protection, hunting and illegal trade continue to threaten its survival.

For centuries, people have hunted for their vibrant feathers and fur. Residents of Boven Digoel Village state that hunting activity increases during the back-to-back school period because people sell bird parts to cover educational expenses.

One fascinating aspect of this species is its unique mating ritual. Males perform an elaborate courtship dance while produce distinctive calls like “Kkek… Kkek… Waukk… Waukk…” to attract females. This display occurs in a designated area known as a “lek”, typically featuring tall, broad-canopied trees with open surroundings and minimal human disturbance. The mating process is known as lekking.

Males and females of the Greater Bird of Paradise (Paradisaea apoda) show distinct physical differences, with males displaying their signature vibrant plumage. Ecologically, this species provides valuable insights into wildlife conservation, as information about their nesting sites and bio-ecology remains limited (IPB, 2023).

From the social perspective, sightings of these birds often come from forest workers or locals who witness the males dancing or find lek trees. However, lek trees are at risk—as there are no specific regulations to protect them, trees that meet logging criteria can be felled, even if they are critical for courtship displays or serve as food sources.

So, what has the Papua Conservation Team been doing?

The Papua Conservation Team primarily focuses on protecting and preserving lek locations—crucial sites for the birds’ courtship displays. We conduct daily research to better understand the species and its needs. Our studies include:

  • Research on habitat, food sources, and breeding patterns
  • Population studies
  • Investigations into distribution and community interactions

This research aims to gather ecological data to guide conservation efforts, ensuring the long-term survival of the species and its habitat.

If we find the right way to teach people about wildlife, we can touch their hearts.

Pig-Nosed Turtle

Part of the Eukarya domain and Testudines order, Carettochelys insculpta (pig-nosed turtle) is a species found only in the southern side of Papua, Indonesia

Bird of Paradise

Greater bird-of-paradise (Paradisaea apoda, family: Paradisaeidae order: Passeriformes) is a bird-of-paradise in the genus Paradisaea

Papua Conservation

Asiki, Jair,
Boven Digoel Regency,
Papua 99661

 

T: 021-396-7102
E: mail@papuaconservation.com