Habitat:
Tropical forests, rainforests, mangroves

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Ptiloris magnificus, or Magnificent riflebird, is a bird of the Paradisaeidae family, renowned for its striking plumage and spectacular courtship displays. Males display glossy black feathers with metallic blue and green sheens, while females are more subdued in brown tones. This bird is endemic to the rainforests of New Guinea and northeastern Australia. It primarily feeds on fruits and insects. Males perform intricate dances to attract females, showcasing their feathers and producing distinctive sounds. Although their habitat is threatened by deforestation, they are not currently critically endangered.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Ptiloris magnificus, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture the details of its striking plumage without disturbing it. Look for it in tropical forests where it is active during the day. Be patient and wait for it to start its courtship display, a moment when it spectacularly spreads its feathers. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and adjust the settings to capture the changing light under the dense canopy.