Paradise Riflebird, Australia
An elegant jewel of the Australian rainforest, the Paradise Riflebird is showy, vocal, and large. Ptiloris paradiseus is 11 inches long, and not a commonly found bird.
They reside in the rainforest on the eastern coast of Australia, we found this one in Queensland. We spotted it when we heard a loud rasping call, and then within seconds watched it do a mating display. With fanned wings that looked like a velvet pleated cape, he threw his head back and pranced, flashing his iridescent plumage. You can read more about it here.
Paradise Riflebird display
Sometimes I find myself melting and perspiring, slapping at relentless mosquitoes, wandering around in a smelly, dark rainforest wondering why I am here. Other times, like this five minutes we had with the Paradise Riflebird, I know exactly why I went to the trouble. And then trudge on for more.
Photo credit: Athena Alexander
Jet Eliot 
Very cool. WordPress provides the world with wonderful things. Thanks for sharing him with us.
It is totally my pleasure. I’m glad you enjoyed it, CS, and appreciate your visit. 🙂
Fabulous photos, Athena. Fabulous spirit, Jet.
Yes, we were without a guide that day, so it took both of us to even find a place where we could get into the rainforest. It was so dense! Thanks, Nan, for your warm comments…always appreciated. 🙂
Wow, how fabulous. The second on made made my jaw drop, Astonishing.
I’m in tears while reading “…why I went to the trouble..” Thank you for taking us there to see the beauty of our nature, Jet. 🙂
All the places you’ve been, Amy, I’m sure you know that feeling. There’s something about traveling in nature: you know you won’t have this exact opportunity again probably ever, so it stirs you to push yourself. And it ALWAYS pays off. Your comment, Amy, was truly appreciated. 😀
I haven’t done travel the kind of travels you have. I’m sure traveling in nature is very rewarding, at the same time it must be very challenging. I appreciate so much you sharing your wonderful stories and photos. 🙂
I can’t get over the photo of that bird with wings wrapped around him…. at first I thought he was wearing pants!!
I know, such a cool bird. Thanks for stopping by Roslyn. 😀
Beautiful images, I love especially the second one!..and seeing this bird in its natural habitat must be truly special!
Yes, it’s like seeing anyone in their home; they are their true selves here. You who swims with the fish — you know how that is. Many thanks Indah! 😀
Fab Fotos!
Thanks so much Cindy! 😀
Love these images. Thank you for sharing your stories.
I’m really honored that you enjoyed the post, thank you so much. 😀
Australian birds are for the most beautiful and extraordinary. This one plus 713 bird species they have. Great post and pictures Jet! 🙂
Oh yes, Australia’s birds are such a pleasure. Glad you enjoyed it HJ! 😀
It really is a beauty. I have been learning more on Australian birds, so many are so colorful and beautifully patterned.
Thanks Donna. I love Australia for its birds and mammals, so many are very different than any other place in the world. 🙂
isn’t interesting that a little mosquitoes can make you slap yourself. Very cool bird!
…over and over and over. lol. Glad you liked it Bill. Have a great weekend! 😀
Both wonderful photos. Like sculptures!
He caught my eye and rendered me speechless, like a beautiful sculpture does. Thanks Gill. 😀
❤
What an exciting find! Well-worth all the trials and tribulations 😉
How thrilling – what a wonderful bird. I have to rely on David Attenborough programmes to see creatures like this! RH
It was very reminiscent of his birds of paradise show. David Attenborough is one of my heroes. Very glad you liked the riflebird, RH. 😀
The riflebird is gorgeous… I love your post dear Jet.
Thanks for sharing. Best regards!, Aquileana 😀
How nice to have you visit, Aquileana. Thanks so much. 😀