Blue bird-of-paradise  (Paradisaea rudolphi)

Habitat loss is the most important threat to the survival of the blue bird-of-paradise. Much of the native forests of Papua New Guinea are being cleared to make way for agriculture and development (2) and it is likely that the already small population of these birds will become increasingly fragmented (1). The colourful feathers of these birds have traditionally been in demand and the species continues to be targeted by hunters (2).

The blue bird-of-paradise is protected by law in Papua New Guinea and international trade is restricted by its listing on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) (2). More research into the distribution of these beautiful birds is required in order to accurately gauge the risk currently facing their population (1).