EXOTIC BIRDLIFE

Papua New Guinea provides a thriving habitat for many exotic bird species. The renowned bird of paradise is what attracts serious birders to the region.

Many visitors are drawn to PNG because of its birdwatching opportunities. Considering there are no less than 646 species on record, it’s no wonder the activity is so popular. The bird of paradise is one of the most lauded species in the region, inspiring awe from travellers throughout the centuries.

It’s believed the bird of paradise first earned its name in the 16th century when European mariners deemed it heaven sent because of its stunning appearance. PNG boasts 38 species of bird of paradise, from those touting flamboyant plumage to those with alien-like antennae.

Birds of paradise are sexually dimorphic meaning the female and male look different. For example, the male often features exuberant colouration. The creature’s extravagant mating ritual is one of the most delightful visual performances you’ll ever witness.

To draw the attention of a potential mate, adult males fan their feathers into a parasol shape and bring their best dance moves to the occasion. Young males learn the dance by watching their fathers do it and then practice it into adulthood. It’s ultimately the female’s choice to mate, so plenty of work goes into perfecting the performance.

A few of the popular varieties of bird of paradise are the Raggiana, Blue Bird of Paradise, Queen Carola’s Parotia and King of Saxony. Morning time is best to catch the bird of paradise in its natural habitat. Birders travel to PNG for many other rare and unique species. Ask your accommodation establishment about a birdwatching tour.

REGIONS & TOURS

Due to its elevated location, Tabubil in the Western Province attracts an awe-inspiring range of exotic bird species, in particular the bird of paradise. Kiunga Nature Tours (KNT), run by Samuel Kepuknai, has been offering birdwatching tours since the 1990s. KNT offers a Tabubil Bird Area Tour for those keen to explore the birdlife in the region.

Kiunga is world renowned for its birdwatching as it attracts a stunning range of exotic species. KNT has a Kiunga Bird Area Tour that boasts four different sites to view birdlife.

Bensbach Wildlife Lodge, also in the Western Province, has 191 bird species on record so provides plenty of opportunity to spot both endemic and migratory species. Ambua Lodge is an eco-lodge located in the Hela Province in the Highlands. The region is home to 217 bird species with 13 types of bird of paradise so it’s a mecca for birding enthusiasts. The lodge has local guides on hand who can provide leisurely birdwatching tours or more customised tours for serious birders. For more information on birding tours at the Bensbach Wildlife Lodge, Ambua Lodge and Lake Murray Lodge, contact Trans Niugini Tours on +675 7198 9397.

While the mainland is flush with birdlife, the islands of PNG feature their own fascinating species. The Walindi Resort in Kimbe, West New Britain, offers birding tours. For more information, call the resort on +675 7234 8460.

Watch out for

• Bird of Paradise

• Victoria Crowned Pigeon

• Black Sicklebill

• Azure Kingfisher

• Classical Emperor Fairy Wren

• Nicobar Pigeon

• New Guinea Vulturine Parrot

• Black Sicklebill

• Rainbow Bee-eater

• Flame Bowerbird