Habitat:
Tropical rainforests, secondary forests

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

Identification and description:
The Goldie's Bird-of-paradise, or Paradisaea decora, is a bird species from the Paradisaeidae family, endemic to Fergusson and Normanby islands in Papua New Guinea. This magnificent bird is renowned for its dazzling plumage and spectacular courtship displays. Males boast golden-yellow and emerald-green feathers, with ornamental plumes that unfurl during their courtship dances. Females, more subdued, have olive-brown plumage. The Goldie's Bird-of-paradise primarily inhabits tropical rainforests, feeding on fruits, insects, and small animals. Unfortunately, this species is threatened by deforestation and hunting, leading to its classification as vulnerable by the IUCN.

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

Photography tips:
To photograph the Goldie's Bird-of-paradise, it's advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture the details of its plumage without disturbing it. Look for areas in the forest where males perform their courtship displays, usually early in the morning. Be patient and discreet, as these birds can be suspicious. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and wait for the right moment to capture their graceful movements.