Ptiloris intercedens
The Growling Riflebird, *Ptiloris intercedens*, is a medium-sized bird-of-paradise renowned for its striking sexual dimorphism and unique vocalizations. Males are approximately 25-28 cm long, sporting velvety black plumage that is intensely iridescent with a metallic blue-green sheen on the crown, mantle, and tail, and a vibrant green-blue breast shield. Their distinctive field mark is this spectacular iridescence, particularly during their display, contrasted by a black, strongly decurved bi...
Found primarily in tropical lowland and hill rainforests, typically at elevations ranging from sea level up to 1,500 meters, preferring dense canopies and understory.
Primarily omnivorous, feeding on a mix of fruits (especially figs and drupes) and arthropods (insects, spiders) gleaned from bark and foliage.
Growling Riflebirds are diurnal and generally solitary, spending most of their time foraging in the canopy and mid-story. Males establish territories centered around a display tree, from which they perform elaborate courtship rituals for visiting females. During these polygynous displays, the mal...
The Growling Riflebird is endemic to the island of New Guinea, primarily found in the lowlands and hill forests of southeastern Papua New Guinea. Its distribution extends from the Fly River region eastward through the Trans-Fly lowlands, encompassing the Huon Peninsula and scattered populations i...
Least Concern
- The male Growling Riflebird's display involves fanning his cape-like plumage and rocking his head side-to-side, appearing to 'dance' on a horizontal branch. - Females often weave shed snake skins into the exterior of their nests, a behavior thought to deter predators. - Its scientific name, *in...