Magnificent Riflebird

Overview

The magnificent riflebird (Ptiloris magnificus) is a medium-sized passerine bird belonging to the birds-of-paradise family. It is widely distributed and considered a common species, currently evaluated as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Identification

• Males are velvet-black with an iridescent blue-green crown, a wide triangle-shaped breast shield, and elongated black filamental flank plumes.
• The species measures up to 34 cm in length with a black curved bill, yellow mouth, and blackish feet.
• Females are brownish with dark spots, buff bars below, and a white brow.
• Courtship displays involve a distinctive 'woosh' sound as males flap their wings while jerking upward.

Habitat

This species inhabits lowland rainforests throughout western New Guinea and the northern Cape York Peninsula of Australia. It is listed on Appendix II of CITES.

Diet

The diet consists mainly of fruits and a variety of invertebrates, including spiders and millipedes.

Did you know?

The common name 'riflebird' is derived from the likeness of the male's black velvety plumage to the uniform of the British Army Rifle Brigade.