bird of paradise

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One of 40 species of crowlike birds in the family Paradiseidae, native to New Guinea and neighbouring islands. Females are generally drably coloured, but the males have bright and elaborate plumage used in courtship display. Hunted almost to extinction for their plumage, they are now subject to conservation.

They are smallish birds, extremely active, and have compressed beaks, large toes, and strong feet. Their food consists chiefly of fruits, seeds, and nectar, but it may also include insects and small animals, such as worms. The Australian bowerbirds are closely related.

Green and red replaced blue and white as the national colours in 1910. The armillary sphere surrounds the shield of Portugal. Effective date: 30 June 1911. >>