Magnificent Riflebird

A bird of paradise with a velvet-black courtship display/Small Animals

The magnificent riflebird (Ptiloris magnificus) is a species of bird of paradise found in the tropical rainforests of New Guinea and far northeastern Australia. Males are about 34 cm long with glossy black plumage and an iridescent blue-green breast shield. During courtship, the male perches on an exposed branch, spreads his wings into a broad cape, and sways rhythmically while repeatedly opening his beak to flash the bright yellow interior. The display is so precise and mechanical that it looks almost robotic.