Welcome to Southwest Papua! This region of Indonesia is home to some of the world’s most unique and diverse bird species. From the famous Birds of Paradise to the rare and elusive Papuan Frogmouth, these birds offer a stunning display of color and beauty.
With more than 700 species of birds in Southwest Papua, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or just looking to appreciate nature, Southwest Papua is the perfect destination for a bird-watching adventure.
24 Birds to Watch in Southwest Papua
Southwest Papua is a region of Indonesia that is home to a rich diversity of birdlife. From colorful parrots to majestic eagles, there are many species that can be seen and admired by birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
Here are 24 birds that you should watch out for when visiting this amazing place.
1. Papuan Frogmouth
The Papuan frogmouth is a bird species native to New Guinea and nearby islands. It belongs to the family Podargidae, which comprises nightjars, frogmouths, oilbirds, and potoos.
These birds are distinguished by their large eyes, short, rounded wings, and long, slender bills.
They are also known for their extraordinary camouflage, which helps them blend in with the branches and leaves of their forest habitats. The Papuan frogmouth is nocturnal, meaning it is active at night and sleeps during the day.
At night, they hunt for insects, which comprise the bulk of their diet. Their long, slender bills are perfect for catching their prey.
They also use their bills to catch and eat fruit, flowers, and other vegetation. The Papuan frogmouth is also known for its loud, booming calls. These calls are used to attract mates and to defend its territory.
The calls are also used to ward off potential predators. The Papuan frogmouth is classified as “near threatened” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
This is because their population is declining due to the habitat loss caused by deforestation and illegal logging. They are also threatened by hunting, which is unlawful in some areas. Conservation efforts are being made to protect this species and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Podargiformes |
| Family | Podargidae |
| Genus | Podargus |
| Species | P. papuensis |
2. Western Crowned Pigeon
The western crowned pigeon is a large bird found in the Western Hemisphere. It is characterized by its blue-grey plumage and striking blue lacy crests atop its head that give it a regal appearance.
These crests are accompanied by dark blue mask feathers around its eyes, creating an even more eye-catching look. The males and females of this species are quite similar in appearance, though males are typically larger than females.
On average, the western crowned pigeon measures 70 cm long and weighs 2.1 kg. It is an impressive sight and will demand attention wherever it is seen.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Goura |
| Species | G. cristata |
3. Red Bird-of-Paradise
The red bird-of-paradise, also known as the cendrawasih merah, is a beautiful and unique species of bird belonging to the family Paradisaeidae, part of the genus Paradisaea.
As its name implies, the red bird-of-paradise is characterized by its stunning red plumage, composed of a vibrant combination of scarlet, orange, and yellow feathers.
This species is often found in the tropical forests of Indonesia, where it can be seen flitting around in search of food and mates. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring around 15-17 cm in length, with a long, curved tail and a curved beak.
The red bird of paradise is a highly sought-after species due to its beauty and rarity and has become a symbol of Indonesia’s exotic wildlife.
In addition to its captivating plumage, the red bird-of-paradise also has a unique and beautiful call, described as a soft and melodic trill.
Though the red bird of paradise is not endangered, it is still vulnerable to habitat loss and is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paradisaeidae |
| Genus | Paradisaea |
| Species | P. rubra |
4. King Bird-of-paradise
The King Bird-of-Paradise is a type of passerine bird that belongs to the Paradisaeidae family. A passerine bird is a perching bird with feet with three toes facing forward and one backward.
The IOC checklist recognizes this species as the only member of the genus Cicinnurus. However, the Diphyllodes genus is closely related to Cicinnurus and is placed within this genus by several other authorities.
The King Bird-of-Paradise is found mainly in New Guinea and is known for its remarkable courtship display and vibrant plumage. The male of the species has long, curved tail feathers, which they display during courtship to impress potential mates.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) currently lists this species as’ Least Concern’.’
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paradisaeidae |
| Genus | Cicinnurus |
| Species | C. regius |
5. Magnificent Bird-of-paradise
The magnificent bird-of-paradise is a species of bird-of-paradise native to the tropical rainforests of New Guinea and the surrounding islands. It is a medium-sized bird that is mainly black with a bright blue throat and a yellow-orange breast.
The magnificent bird-of-paradise is evaluated as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This means that, although it is not considered in immediate danger, its population is still declining, and conservation efforts should be made.
The magnificent bird-of-paradise is also listed in Appendix II of CITES, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. This means international trade in this species is regulated and monitored to ensure it is not over-exploited.
Conservation measures, such as habitat protection and wildlife management, are also needed to ensure the long-term survival of the magnificent bird of paradise.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paradisaeidae |
| Genus | Cicinnurus |
| Species | C. magnificus |
6. Pied Imperial Pigeon
The pied imperial pigeon is a unique species of pigeon that stands out among its avian peers. It is a giant bird with a distinctive pied coloring, combining white and dark grey or black.
It is found in various Southeast Asian habitats, such as forests, woodlands, mangroves, plantations, and scrub. Its range extends from Myanmar and Thailand in the north to Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Bird’s Head Peninsula in New Guinea in the south.
This pigeon species is an adaptable bird that can thrive in various meats. It can be found in urban and rural areas, and in some cases, it is even seen in open farmland. Its diet consists of various fruits, seeds, and vegetation.
This species is a popular target for hunters, which has caused its population to decline in recent years. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the long-term survival of the pied imperial pigeon.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Ducula |
| Species | D. bicolor |
7. Twelve-Wired Bird-of-Paradise
The twelve-wired bird-of-paradise is a stunningly beautiful species of bird-of-paradise that is native to the island of New Guinea. This medium-sized bird has a velvet black body and striking yellow plumes along its flanks.
It measures around 33 cm long, with a long, black bill and a bright red iris. The male of the species is particularly striking with its yellow plumes and glowing red eyes.
The twelve-wired bird-of-paradise is a member of the Paradisaeidae family, which is part of the Passeriformes order. This family comprises some of the most brightly colored and exotic birds in the world, and the twelve-wired bird-of-paradise is undoubtedly no exception.
It is believed to be a relatively recent species, first described in 1837 by the German naturalist Johann Georg Wagler. The twelve-wired bird-of-paradise is a shy species and is rarely seen in the wild.
Its habitat is mainly restricted to lowland forests, where it feeds on fruits, seeds, and insects. During the breeding season, the male of the species displays its impressive yellow plumes and red eye to attract a mate.
The twelve-wired bird-of-paradise is a genuinely stunning bird species that will captivate anyone lucky to see it in its natural habitat. Its velvet black body and striking yellow plumes are undoubtedly a sight.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paradisaeidae |
| Genus | Seleucidis |
| Species | S. melanoleucus |
8. Western Parotia
The western or Arfak parotia is a bird-of-paradise species native to the Arfak mountains of West Papua, Indonesia. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring about 33 cm in length and sporting a medium-length tail.
The bird is named parotia after the Greek word parotis, a lock or curl of hair by the ear.
This is likely about the parotia’s distinctive head wires, which form a unique curl pattern and lock around the head. The bird is known for its elaborate courtship displays.
During courtship, the male raises his wings and displays his head wires in an intricate pattern. The female will then assess the male’s display and decide whether or not to mate with him.
The parotia is also an essential part of the ecology of the Arfak mountains, as it helps disperse seeds and promote the regrowth of the forest.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paradisaeidae |
| Genus | Parotia |
| Species | P. sefilata |
9. Marbled Frogmouth
The marbled frogmouth is a species of bird found in the family Podargidae. It was first identified by French naturalists Jean René Constant Quoy and Joseph Paul Gaimard in 1830.
This species is native to the Aru Islands, New Guinea, and Queensland, a region of northeastern Australia. The marbled frogmouth is a medium-sized nocturnal bird, typically measuring between 20 and 24 inches long.
It has a mottled brown plumage with bright white, yellow, and buff areas. Its most distinguishing feature is its large, frog-like mouth, which is used to capture its prey.
The marbled frogmouth feeds primarily on insects, small reptiles, and amphibians. The marbled frogmouth is a solitary species and sets up territories in dense vegetation. Its nests are constructed from sticks, leaves, and moss, usually in a tree cavity.
Breeding occurs during the wet season when the birds lay a clutch of two to three eggs. The marbled frogmouth population is considered stable, though the species is threatened by habitat destruction and feral cats and foxes.
Fortunately, conservation efforts are in place to protect the marbled frogmouth and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Podargiformes |
| Family | Podargidae |
| Genus | Podargus |
| Species | P. ocellatus |
10. Feline Owlet-nightjar
The feline owlet-nightjar is a unique bird species in the family Aegothelidae. This species is found only in New Guinea, where it is known to inhabit subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
These forests, also known as cloud forests, are moist and cool year-round, allowing the feline owlet nightjar to thrive in its natural habitat. The bird is characterized by its dark-brown color and tan spots on its wings, which help it blend in with its surroundings.
The species is also known to be nocturnal, hunting for insects and small mammals at night. This type of bird is also known for its distinctive call, usually heard during the night in the forests of New Guinea.
The feline owlet-nightjar is an important species in the ecosystem of New Guinea, and its conservation is essential for preserving the natural environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Aegotheliformes |
| Family | Aegothelidae |
| Genus | Aegotheles |
| Species | A. insignis |
11. Moustached Treeswift
The mustached treeswift is an avian species belonging to the family of Hemiprocnidae. It is endemic to the northern Moluccas, New Guinea, Bismarck, and the Solomon Islands archipelagos.
This bird species is easily identified by its large mustache, which is the source of its name. The mustached treeswift is a medium-sized swift, measuring between 16 and 18 cm long and weighing around 24 to 38 grams.
Its plumage is primarily grey and white, with darker grey feathers on its head and back. Its wings are long and pointed, and its tail is forked. The mustached treeswift feeds mainly on insects such as flies and moths, which it catches in flight.
It also eats small fruits and berries. The mustached treeswift has a wide range but is not particularly common. Its preferred habitat is humid and heavily wooded areas, where it nests in the hollows of tree trunks.
The species is not migratory and will remain in its range throughout the year. Overall, the mustached treeswift is an exciting and unique species, with its distinctive mustache and wide range.
It is an integral part of the northern Moluccas, New Guinea, Bismarck, and the Solomon Islands archipelagos’ ecosystems, where it helps control insect populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Hemiprocnidae |
| Genus | Hemiprocne |
| Species | H. mystacea |
12. Palm Cockatoo
The palm cockatoo is a large, smoky-grey or black parrot that belongs to the cockatoo family. This species is native to New Guinea, the Aru Islands, and the Cape York Peninsula. It is also called the Goliath cockatoo or the tremendous black cockatoo.
One of the most distinctive features of this bird is its huge black beak. Additionally, it has two bright red cheek patches, a defining characteristic of this species.
The palm cockatoo is the largest species, with a wingspan of up to 35 inches. They can reach a height of up to 20 inches. They are also one of the longest-living birds, with the average lifespan being up to 80 years.
These birds are primarily solitary and only form large flocks during breeding. They are mainly arboreal, meaning they spend most of their time in trees. They can be found in lowland and hill forests, mangroves, and woodlands.
They feed mainly on fruits, nuts, and seeds, although they have been known to consume insects and small vertebrates. The palm cockatoo is endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, and the pet trade.
Some conservation efforts have been in place, such as captive breeding programs and habitat protection. Despite these efforts, the population of these birds is still declining.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
| Family | Cacatuidae |
| Genus | Probosciger |
| Species | P. aterrimus |
13. Blyth’s Hornbill
Blyth’s Hornbill, scientifically known as Aceros plicatus, is a species of Hornbill native to the forests of Wallacea and Melanesia. It is also referred to as the Papuan Hornbill due to its broad range across the islands in the region.
Its local name in Tok Pisin, an English-based Creole language spoken in Papua New Guinea, is Kokomo. Blyth’s Hornbill is a large species of Hornbill with a black body and white tail. Its most distinct feature is its long, curved bill, which is yellow and red.
This Hornbill inhabits the forest canopy in its range and is a common sight in the region. Previously, this species of Hornbill was placed in the genus Aceros, which includes other species of hornbills found in the region.
However, recent studies have suggested that Blyth’s Hornbill is not closely related to other species of Aceros and is, therefore, placed in its genus.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Bucerotiformes |
| Family | Bucerotidae |
| Genus | Rhyticeros |
| Species | R. plicatus |
14. Spice Imperial Pigeon
The Spice Imperial Pigeon is a species of bird that is part of the Columbidae family. It is only found in some regions of Indonesia, specifically the eastern Moluccas and the Raja Ampat Islands.
It lives in two habitats – subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical mangrove forests. These forests are full of lush vegetation and provide the perfect environment for the Spice Imperial Pigeon to thrive.
These forests are also home to many other species of plants and animals, making it a diverse and vibrant ecosystem. The Spice Imperial Pigeon is an integral part of this ecosystem, as it helps to disperse seeds and aid in pollination.
The continued conservation of the Spice Imperial Pigeon is essential if these unique forests are to remain healthy and vibrant.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Ducula |
| Species | D. myristicivora |
15. Glossy Swiftlet
The glossy swiftlet is a species of bird found in the family Apodidae, which includes swifts and hummingbirds. It is native to the Indonesian island of Sulawesi and can also be found in parts of New Guinea, the Bismarck Archipelago, and the Solomon Islands.
This species of swift has a glossy plumage, typically grey or brown. The glossy swiftlet is a small bird measuring between 11 and 12 cm in length. It has short legs and a short tail, which it uses to maneuver quickly in the air.
This swift species feeds primarily on small insects, which it catches in mid-air or sometimes picks from the ground or vegetation.
It is a friendly bird and is often seen in large flocks. The glossy swiftlet is considered a fairly common species and is not currently considered to be threatened. It is found in forested areas and open country and is often seen flying around buildings.
It is known to build its nests in caves, crevices, and cracks in walls and other structures.
The nest is a small cup-shaped structure of small twigs and other plant material. In conclusion, the glossy swiftlet is a species of swift found in parts of Indonesia, New Guinea, the Bismarck Archipelago, and the Solomon Islands.
It is a small bird with glossy plumage and feeds on small insects. It is considered a pretty common species and is not currently threatened.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Collocalia |
| Species | C. esculenta |
16. Orange-bellied Fruit Dove
The Orange-bellied Fruit Dove is an attractive bird belonging to the pigeon family. It has an overall green plumage, with some notable features that help it stand out.
The most eye-catching feature is a large orange patch on the lower breast and belly, which gives the dove its name. In addition, there is a small lilac shoulder patch, pale yellow under tail coverts, and a grey terminal band on the tail.
These features help to distinguish the Orange-bellied Fruit Dove from other pigeon species. The dove is small, measuring around 17-20 centimeters in length. Its wingspan is approximately 24-26 centimeters, and its weight is between 55-85 grams.
The bird’s diet consists mainly of fruits, seeds, and flowers, which it collects from the trees and bushes of the tropical forests where it lives. The Orange-bellied Fruit Dove is native to parts of India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.
It is considered an endangered species due to the loss of its natural habitat and the introduction of invasive species. Conservation efforts are being made to protect this species from extinction.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Ptilinopus |
| Species | P. iozonus |
17. Great Cuckoo-dove
The great cuckoo-dove is a bird species belonging to the Columbidae family. It is mainly found in the Maluku Islands and New Guinea.
These birds prefer to build their nests in rock gorges near waterfalls, likely due to the shelter they provide and the ability to blend in with the environment.
The call of the cuckoo-dove is a two-part sound, wok-wu, which can be heard even above the noise of the nearby waterfalls. This call is used to communicate with other species members and warn predators of their presence.
The great cuckoo-dove is an impressive species of bird that has adapted to its environment, making it an essential part of the local ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Reinwardtoena |
| Species | R. reinwardti |
18. Black Sicklebill
The black sicklebill is a large bird in the Birds of Paradise family, Paradisaeidae. This magnificent species is found in the tropical forests of central New Guinea and the Vogelkop region in the northwest part of the country.
It inhabits the island’s mountainous regions, between altitudes of 1800 and 2150 meters. The black sicklebill has a unique plumage, combining black, white, and blue feathers.
Its most distinguishing feature is the long sickle-shaped bill, which can catch insects and other small prey. The black sicklebill is an integral part of the island’s ecosystem, as it helps to maintain a healthy balance of biodiversity in the forests.
As a result, it is a protected species listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paradisaeidae |
| Genus | Epimachus |
| Species | E. fastosus |
19. Purple-tailed Imperial Pigeon
The purple-tailed imperial pigeon is a bird species belonging to the Columbidae family. It is native to New Guinea and can be found in subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests.
This bird species typically resides in dense forests, with its diet consisting of fruits, buds, and seeds. These birds are usually seen in small groups of up to 10 individuals but can sometimes be seen in larger flocks of hundreds.
This species’ male and female birds are similar in appearance, sporting a purple-colored tail. They have black heads, grey wings, and a white body. The purple-tailed imperial pigeon is a relatively calm species of bird that is not known to be aggressive.
It is an integral part of New Guinea’s ecology due to its pollination and dispersal of seeds in the area. The species is also an important food source for local people and is hunted for its meat.
Due to its extensive range and stable population, the purple-tailed imperial pigeon is currently listed as a species of most minor concern by the IUCN. Although its numbers may be declining, the species is not in danger of extinction now.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Ducula |
| Species | D. rufigaster |
20. Papuan Mountain Pigeon
The Papuan mountain pigeon is a bird species belonging to the pigeon family Columbidae. It is primarily found in the Bacan Islands, New Guinea, the D’Entrecasteaux Islands, and the Bismarck Archipelago.
These regions are its primary habitats, where it can live in various habitats. These include primary forests, montane forests, and lowlands.
Within these habitats, the Papuan mountain pigeon can find the resources to survive, such as food, shelter, and nesting sites.
The species can also take advantage of the different types of vegetation in these habitats, providing it with the necessary cover and protection from potential predators.
As a result, the Papuan mountain pigeon can thrive and is considered to be expected in its range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Gymnophaps |
| Species | G. albertisii |
21. Channel-billed Cuckoo
The channel-billed cuckoo is found in Australia, New Guinea, and Indonesia. It is the only species in the genus Scythrops and the world’s most giant brood parasite and cuckoo.
It is also known to be a vagrant in New Caledonia and New Zealand, which means it occasionally migrates to these two locations. The channel-billed cuckoo is a distinctive bird species with a hefty bill adapted for breaking open hard-shelled fruits.
It strongly prefers figs, which it consumes in large quantities. The adult birds are mostly greyish-brown, with a pale head, neck, and white underparts.
The wings and tail are barred white and grey. The breeding season of the channel-billed cuckoo is relatively short, usually lasting from late winter to mid-spring. The birds will migrate to Australia and New Guinea to breed during this time.
The female cuckoos will lay their eggs in the nests of other species, such as the Australian magpie, and the host species will raise the young cuckoos.
This cuckoo species is considered to be of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Despite this, the population of channel-billed cuckoos is thought to be decreasing due to habitat destruction and the fact that farmers often kill the birds to protect their crops.
Overall, the channel-billed cuckoo is an exciting bird species with a wide range and is a key species in its habitat. It is essential to protect the habitat of this species to ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Scythrops |
| Species | S. novaehollandiae |
22. Mountain Owlet-nightjar
The mountain owlet-nightjar is a species of bird found in New Guinea’s highlands. It is a part of the Aegothelidae family and lives in subtropical or tropical montane forests.
These forests are known for having high moisture levels and are usually in mountainous areas. The mountain owlet-nightjar can be found foraging in the understory of these forests, searching for insects, small reptiles, and even small mammals.
This bird species is nocturnal, so it is most active at night and sleeps during the day. It is an elusive and rare species generally unseen by humans.
Mountain owlet nightjars have adapted to their environment, using their cryptic coloration to blend in and escape potential predators. They have also developed a unique call, which is used to communicate with other owlet-nightjars in the area.
Despite their adaptations, the mountain owlet-nightjar remains vulnerable to habitat destruction and other human-caused threats. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Aegotheliformes |
| Family | Aegothelidae |
| Genus | Aegotheles |
| Species | A. albertisi |
23. Magnificent Riflebird
The Magnificent Riflebird is a species of bird that belongs to the family Paradisaeidae, commonly known as Birds-of-Paradise. It is found in two distinct geographical locations: western New Guinea and the northern Cape York Peninsula of Australia.
These regions are home to lowland rainforests, providing the ideal habitat for the Magnificent Riflebird. Its stunning plumage most easily identifies this species of bird.
It features a glossy black body with iridescent blue-green wings and tail and a distinctive white patch on its head. The male Magnificent Riflebird is also known for its incredible courtship display, which involves a series of complex movements and vocalizations.
The Magnificent Riflebird is an essential species for conserving rainforest ecosystems in these regions. They are an integral part of the food chain, as they help to disperse the seeds of the plants they feed on.
They also provide a unique source of enjoyment for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Overall, the Magnificent Riflebird is an incredible bird species that is an integral part of our natural world.
Its beauty and importance should not be overlooked, and it is our responsibility to ensure that this species continues to thrive in its natural habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paradisaeidae |
| Genus | Ptiloris |
| Species | P. magnificus |
24. Common Sandpiper
The common sandpiper is a small Palearctic wader, meaning it is a type of shorebird native to the Old World. It is a member of the genus Actitis, which also includes the American spotted sandpiper.
The two sandpiper species are parapatric, meaning they inhabit separate ranges, but their ranges overlap somewhat.
It is not uncommon for individual birds from one species to venture into the range of the other and even settle down with members of the different species to breed. This can sometimes result in hybridization between the two species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Actitis |
| Species | A. hypoleucos |
Conclusion
Southwest Papua is an incredibly biodiverse area that supports various bird species. From the endangered species of the Pesquet’s Parrot to the Plum-faced Lorikeet, this region is home to an astounding number of birds from diverse families.
The forests of Southwest Papua provide a unique habitat for these species and are an essential part of the region’s natural beauty.
The incredible diversity of bird species found in Southwest Papua provides a fascinating glimpse into the natural history of this region. It serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting the environment.