Emperor Bird-of-Paradise vs Red Bird-of-Paradise

In short

The Emperor Bird-of-Paradise and the Red Bird-of-Paradise can be distinguished by the color of their flank plumes and tail wires. The Emperor has white flank plumes and tail wires, while the Red has red flank plumes and black tail wires tipped with white. Both species are similar in structure and size, but these plumage differences are key.

Identification tips

1. Look for white flank plumes and tail wires in the Emperor Bird-of-Paradise. 2. Identify the red flank plumes and black tail wires with white tips in the Red Bird-of-Paradise. 3. Consider geographic location: the Emperor is in New Guinea, while the Red is on Waigeo and Batanta islands.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of the Paradisaea genus.

Plumage

The Emperor Bird-of-Paradise has striking white flank plumes and tail wires, whereas the Red Bird-of-Paradise features red flank plumes and black tail wires with white tips. Both have similar overall body coloration, but these specific plumage features are diagnostic.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar courtship displays typical of birds-of-paradise, involving elaborate dances and poses.

Habitat

The Emperor Bird-of-Paradise is found in the lowland and hill forests of New Guinea, while the Red Bird-of-Paradise is restricted to the islands of Waigeo and Batanta in Indonesia, often in similar forest habitats.

Voice

Vocalizations are not the most reliable distinguishing feature between these two species, as both have similar calls typical of birds-of-paradise.