Wallace's Standardwing is an exceptionally beautiful bird-of-paradise, famous for the two pairs of long, erectile, enamel-white plumes that emerge from the male's wing bends. The male has an iridescent violet-plum and buff body, while the female is duller and lacks the plumes. It's a true marvel of evolution.
Where to spot
Endemic to the islands of Halmahera, Bacan, and Obi in North Maluku, Indonesia. It inhabits tropical moist lowland forests, preferring the mid to upper canopy.
How to spot
Look for the male's striking violet-plumage, bright green throat, and the two pairs of long, white standardwing plumes during display. Females are duller but share the habitat. Locating a lek is the best way to observe the male's full splendor.
When to spot
Active during daylight hours. Males display during the breeding season, often in communal leks in the early morning. It is a resident species.
Where to spot
Endemic to the islands of Halmahera, Bacan, and Obi in North Maluku, Indonesia. It inhabits tropical moist lowland forests, preferring the mid to upper canopy.
How to spot
Look for the male's striking violet-plumage, bright green throat, and the two pairs of long, white standardwing plumes during display. Females are duller but share the habitat. Locating a lek is the best way to observe the male's full splendor.
When to spot
Active during daylight hours. Males display during the breeding season, often in communal leks in the early morning. It is a resident species.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Named after Alfred Russel Wallace, who first described it, this species' unique 'standardwing' plumes can be raised and vibrated by the male during his incredible courtship display, which involves swaying on a branch.
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