Paradisaeidae

Paradisaeidae, commonly known as the birds of paradise, are a family of passerine birds native to New Guinea and surrounding islands, with some species occurring on nearby western Pacific archipelagos. They are renowned for elaborate plumage and courtship displays, particularly by males.

Most species exhibit marked sexual dimorphism. Males often display vivid colors and extravagant plumage, such as elongated tail feathers or ornate flank plumes, used in visual displays to attract females. Females are typically smaller and drabber, with cryptic brown or olive plumage that aids concealment while nesting.

Mating behavior frequently involves lek-like displays, where males gather at display sites and perform dances, postures, and plumage displays to attract visiting females. Female choice drives much of the evolution of male plumage and behavior. After mating, females typically incubate the eggs and rear the young with limited or no male parental care.

Habitats include tropical rainforest and forest edge environments, from lowlands to montane forests. Their diet is diverse, encompassing fruit, seeds, nectar, and invertebrates; some species may take small vertebrates. Feeding often occurs in the canopy or along fruiting trees.

Taxonomically, Paradisaeidae is a distinct family within the order Passeriformes. The group comprises about 39 species across roughly 14 genera, with Paradisaea being one of the better-known genera. The birds face threats from habitat loss and fragmentation in parts of their range, and several species are categorized by the IUCN as Vulnerable or Endangered, while others remain of Least Concern.