Manucodia ater
The Glossy-mantled Manucode (Manucodia ater) is a striking, medium-sized bird-of-paradise, often recognized by its entirely black plumage that shimmers with an iridescent sheen of deep blue, purple, and green, particularly prominent on its mantle, head, and breast. Measuring between 33-42 cm (13-16.5 inches) in length and weighing 150-260 grams (5.3-9.2 oz), it possesses dark red eyes, a stout black bill that is slightly decurved, and a relatively long tail. Unlike many of its flamboyant rela...
This species primarily inhabits lowland rainforests, monsoon forests, and swamp forests, typically found from sea level up to 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) in elevation.
Their diet consists predominantly of fruits, especially figs, supplemented with various arthropods, flowers, and nectar, which they glean from tree branches.
Glossy-mantled Manucodes are diurnal and primarily arboreal, spending most of their time foraging in the canopy and sub-canopy. They are typically observed singly, in pairs, or occasionally in small, loose groups, especially when congregating at fruiting trees. Their foraging strategy involves ca...
The Glossy-mantled Manucode is widely distributed across the lowlands of New Guinea and several adjacent islands. Its range includes almost the entirety of mainland New Guinea, extending from the Vogelkop Peninsula in the west to the southeastern tip of the island. Additionally, it is found on nu...
Least Concern
- The Glossy-mantled Manucode is one of the few monogamous species within the Birds-of-Paradise family, a stark contrast to the polygynous breeding systems of many of its relatives. - While visually less spectacular than other Birds-of-Paradise, its iridescence can shimmer with an array of greens...