Reggiana Bird of Paradise

Reggiana Bird of Paradise

This species (Paradisaea raggiana) is the national bird of Papua New Guinea, appearing on the flag & is used very widely as an emblem of the country. The local name is kumul. It is endemic to PNG, widely distributed & found in a wide range of forests from sea level up to around 1500m. 

Not sharp because of poor light at dawn, 

when this species displays.

This lek was in the Varirata National Park at around 770m. The local guide informed us that this particular lek is declining in numbers over the last few years, but no-one seems to know why, as the birds are well protected here.

Males congregate in favored areas & display vigorously to any passing females. Only a few males, the favored ones will breed in any one lek.  Definitely one of the sights & sounds on the trip.