The Wildlife 1984 (Birds of Irian Jaya)

The date of issue of this "The Wildlife 1984" series is October 15, 1984. The Wildlife 1984 series show 4 kinds of birds which live in Irian Jaya, i.e. : Rp 75 (Chlamydera lauterbachi), Rp 110 (Sericulus aureus), Rp 275 (Astrapia nigra), and Rp 325 (Lophorhina superba).

 

1. Chlamydera lauterbachi

This birds live in the northern and southern parts of Irian Jaya. They live in pairs of parties in countries covered with trees and bushes. They are rather timid, but sometimes they become rather a pest, because of their regular visits to orchards. They feed on seeds as well as fruits. Their call is shrill and they are able to imitate the calls of other birds. The cock builds a bower, 3 feet across, and surrounds it with bright objects, such as shells etc.

2.  Sericulus aureus

These birds live in the wooded hills and mountain slopes of Irian Jaya, mainly in the northwest. They find their food at the tops of trees and this consists of a variety of fruits, especially figs. They are always in pairs or family groups. The crest feathers bristle whenever the bird gets excited, and when courting the cock erects his collar neck feathers. These appear to rather rare birds and little is known about their breeding habits; no eggs or nests have ever been found.

3. Astrapia nigra

These are forest birds which live in the Arfak Mountains, Irian Jaya, at altitudes between 5300 and 7000 feet. The main characteristics are the long straight graduated tail with very broad central feathers; the tail is up to 9 inches long. The adult cock is mainly black with iridescent patches on the crown and nape. The hen is brown on the upper parts and the head chin are brownish-grey. These birds feed on many kinds of insects, tree-frogs, lizards and fruits.

4. Lophorhina superba

These birds live in the highlands of "Vogelkop" area, Irian Jaya, at altitudes between 3000 and 7000 feet. The cock lives alone and does his courtship dance in the lower trees. It is very interesting to witness his dancing. The bird begins in a bow attitude, his wings spread, the breast puffed out and the ruff erect. Then he starts to rock backwards and forwards in jerks, or hops up and down, screaming with his bill wide open. The hen leaves after mating and goes elsewhere to build the nest.