Habitat:
tropical rainforests, lowland forests

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

Identification and description:
The Raggiana Bird-of-paradise, or Paradisaea raggiana, is an iconic bird of the Paradisaeidae family, endemic to Papua New Guinea. It is renowned for its spectacular plumage, especially in males, who display bright red and orange feathers, along with elongated central plumes. These birds are famous for their impressive courtship displays, where males perform complex dances to attract females. They primarily inhabit tropical rainforests, feeding on fruits, insects, and small animals. Their melodious song and complex social behaviors make them a fascinating subject for ornithologists. Although their habitat is threatened by deforestation, they remain relatively common within their range.

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

Photography tips:
To photograph the Raggiana 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. The best opportunities arise during courtship displays when males show off their colorful feathers. Opt for early morning hours to take advantage of soft, natural light. Be patient and discreet, as these birds can be suspicious. A tripod can be helpful to stabilize your camera and achieve sharp images. Finally, always respect the safety distance to avoid disrupting their natural behavior.