The red bird of paradise (Paradisaea rubra) is one of 42 bright-colored birds of paradise species. Their name is based on the color of the male red bird of paradise, which has a green-colored face and a glossy red and brown plumage with two long corkscrew-shaped tails. These birds are natives of Indonesia, where the climate and habitat are most favorable for the growth of their population. Their geographic range remains limited for this reason.
These birds are at times spotted sharing their habitats with Wilson’s bird of paradise. There have been many assumptions that these two species have bred to create a hybrid bird species and, although there are no specific records of this, the assumptions are quite strong as most birds of paradise are known to engage in hybridization processes.
To know more about these fascinating birds, their habitat, and how they live, do check out the facts about the red bird of paradise animal given below.
Red Bird Of Paradise Fun Facts
Male and female birds look very different and a male red bird of paradise is much more colorful in comparison with a female red bird of paradise. Males have a dark green face with green-colored pompoms above their brown-colored beady eyes which act as eyebrows. They have a yellowish-green bill and yellow or white color patches on both the breasts and the neck. They have a brown-colored feathery plumage all over with a thick red plume on the underparts of the tail and two black long tail wires that usually have a corkscrew shape at the end.
Females, on the other hand, have a dark brown face with a grayish bill and beady eye. They have a cream-colored neck and a brown, feathery body. They are usually smaller than males and do not have a fancy and glossy plumage.
How Cute Are They?
As their name suggests, these red birds of paradise are one of 42 beautiful-looking birds of paradise and that surely makes them cute. The males, in particular, are an explosion of colors, and their amazing dancing style to attract mates makes them really fascinating to watch too.
How Do They Communicate?
These birds of paradise are known to communicate using different calls which range from a high-pitched ‘ca-ca’ to a throaty ‘wok-wok’ sound. Apart from these different calls, they also use physical gestures and dancing tricks to express their feelings and attract a mate.
How Big Is A Red Bird Of Paradise?
Red birds of paradise are often larger than the king bird of paradise (16 in). A red bird of paradise has a maximum length of around 28.3 in (72 cm), which makes them quite a large bird species.
How Fast Can A Red Bird Of Paradise Fly?
As these birds do not migrate, their flight speed is not known. Despite this, they look very impressive, large, powerful, and beautiful while taking flight, especially when it comes to the male red bird of paradise.
How Much Does A Red Bird Of Paradise Weigh?
An average male red bird of paradise has a weight range of 5.6-1.7 oz (158–224 g) while a female red bird of paradise weighs around 4.1-7.3 oz (115–208 g).
What Are Their Male And Female Names Of The Species?
There are no specific names for red birds of paradise based on gender. However, in general, male birds are called ‘cocks’ while female birds are called ‘hens’.
What Would You Call A Baby Red Bird Of Paradise?
A baby bird of paradise is called a chick or a nestling, just like any other bird.
What Do They Eat?
These birds are omnivores in nature. Although adult birds usually feed on berries and many other fresh fruits, they are seen feeding their young with arthropods like cockroaches and crickets, as well as small mice for a supply of nutrients, especially during their growing period.
Are They Dangerous?
Even though these birds perform competitive lekking activities, they are not reported to be aggressive or dangerous to each other nor towards humans.
Would They Make A Good Pet?
These birds can be kept in zoos and national parks with artificially created habitats, but they prefer to live in the wild and cannot be kept as a pet.
Did You Know…
Red birds of paradise are known to share their name with a similar-looking flower. ‘Red bird of paradise’ is also a name used for a flower with the scientific name Caesalpinia pulcherrima, and this red bird of paradise flower sports similar bright orange, green, and red colors!
The Red Bird Of Paradise’s Calls
The most well-known call by these red birds of paradise is their high-pitched ‘wok-wok’ sound that males specifically use to attract female mates during the breeding season. They also use other ‘ca-ca’ and ‘kaw-kaw’ calls or ticking sounds. These are used to alert other birds about any nearby danger.
How Did The Red Bird Of Paradise Get Its Name?
The name ‘red bird of paradise’ is based on the bright coloring of the bird. Its glossy red plumage is the distinguishing factor that earned this bird species the name ‘red bird of paradise’.
