Greater Lophorina

About

The Greater Lophorina is a bird-of-paradise approximately 26cm in size. The unusually low population of females led this species to have one of the most elaborate courship displays in the avian world.

After a careful preparation of a 'dance floor', the male calls loudly to attract a female before dramatically transforming his appearance. He spreads his folded black feather cape and blue-green chest shield, creating the illusion of an elliptical-shaped creature. He then rhythmically snaps his tail feathers, while hopping in frantic circles around the female. This show can take up many hours in a day. The average female rejects 15-20 potential suitors before consenting to mate.

Location

It is found in central and northeast regions of New Guinea.