The bird-of-paradise

The bird-of-paradise is an iconic and endemic bird of Papua New Guinea and a national symbol. Of the 44 known species worldwide, 38 are endemic to New Guinea, making the island’s tropical rainforests the group’s primary habitat.

In 1971, the bird-of-paradise was incorporated into Papua New Guinea’s national identity. It has since become a prominent feature of the country’s flag, coat of arms, currency and cultural tourism logos. Today, it remains one of Papua New Guinea’s most recognizable natural and cultural symbols.