Birds of Paradise

There are more than three dozen species in the family Paradisaeidae, more commonly known as the birds of paradise. Most are distinguished by striking colors and bright plumage of yellow, blue, scarlet, and green. These colors distinguish them as some of the world's most dramatic and attractive birds. Males often sport vibrant feathered ruffs or amazingly elongated feathers, which are known as wires or streamers. Some species have enormous head plumes or other distinctive ornaments, such as breast shields or head fans.

Males put their bright colors and unusual ornaments to good use when they display for females. Their elaborate dances, poses, and other rituals accentuate their appearance and put on a phenomenal show for both female birds and any humans lucky enough to be in the vicinity. Such displays can last for hours, and in many species they consume a significant part of the male's time.

Reference:http://www.birdsofparadiseproject.org/content.php?page=98
http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/birds/bird-of-paradise/

Graphic from the December 2012 issue of National Geographic magazine feature on the Birds-of-Paradise Project with photographs by Tim Laman.  Created by Senior Graphic Editor Fernando Baptista, Graphics Specialist Maggie Smith and freelance researchers Fanna Gebreyesus.