Birds of Paradise is one of the most fascinating groups of
passerine birds in the world. Birds in this group are especially famous for their
elaborate, most extravagant plumage patterns. Altogether there are 39 species,
living in New Guinea and associated Islands, and also in Australia. Naturalists
had been fascinated by these birds for centuries. However, scientists knew very
little about them until recently.
To fill the vacuum of knowledge, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
lead a long term research project, with National Geographic Society and many
other organisations. The results of the project are now accessible at a new website. This web site contains breathtaking videos and photos of all 39 species.
