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 PS-38 Main Page Map Exhibits Resources Feedback |
.jpg) Primary Science Learning Experience PS–38 Bird Of Paradise  WHAT IS HAPPENING The number of different species of birds is astounding. There are 43 species of the birds of paradise which are closely related to the crow; 35 of these can be found on the island of New Guinea. The name, "Bird of Paradise" was given by 16th century Spaniards who first saw them when Magellan brought them back from his voyages. The beautiful trailing plumes, short velvet-like feathers and beautiful collars on the male birds are used in courtship dances to attract females in their rainforest homes. (Their courting "songs" are quite plain.) Their elongated central tail feathers are very thin. The natives of New Guinea use the tail feathers as adornment. Birds of Paradise eat insects, worms, small vertebrates, fruits and seeds. 
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