Lophorina minor
The Lesser Lophorina, *Lophorina minor*, is a captivating member of the Paradisaeidae family, though it is often considered a subspecies of the Superb Bird-of-Paradise (*Lophorina superba minor*) or, in older classifications, a distinct species. Males are renowned for their striking iridescent plumage and elaborate courtship rituals. Measuring approximately 25-28 cm in length, males are primarily velvety black, punctuated by a brilliant, metallic blue-green crown and a broad, similarly colore...
Found in tropical and subtropical montane rainforests, primarily inhabiting the mid-to-upper canopy and forest understory, at elevations typically between 1,000 to 2,300 meters above sea level.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a variety of fruits, berries, and figs, supplemented with insects and other arthropods.
Lesser Lophorina males are famous for their solitary, polygynous mating system, where they perform an extraordinary courtship display to attract females. Males establish leks, often on a cleared patch of forest floor, where they perform a unique 'smiley face' dance: raising their velvety black ca...
This species, or subspecies *Lophorina superba minor*, is endemic to the island of New Guinea, primarily found in the lower montane forests of the southeastern part of the island. Its distribution generally encompasses the mountainous regions of Papua New Guinea, extending from the Central Cordil...
Least Concern
- The male Lesser Lophorina's courtship display is one of the most iconic and bizarre in the animal kingdom, involving a complete transformation of its silhouette into an 'ellipse' of iridescent blue-green and black. - During its display, the male extends a large, shield-like cape of velvety blac...