Birds-of-Paradise

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is cataloging the 39 species comprising the birds-of-paradise in New Guinea. The lab is posting the results on YouTube, showing us some of the most beautiful and bizarre birds on earth. Eight birds have been featured so far -- put these in HD and enjoy! (Each clip is brief but gorgeous.)

Intro

This five-minute video explains the project and how the photographers get these shots in the field. If you're just here for cool bird footage, skip this.

Greater Bird-of-Paradise

I wouldn't mind a few of these in my backyard. My favorite part: starting around 0:49, the birds make adorable "bork!" noises.

King-of-Saxony Bird-of-Paradise

This little fellow has gigantic feathers sticking out of his head!

King Bird-of-Paradise

The King is colorful, has little doodly bits on his tail, and does a cute dance.

Twelve-wired Bird-of-Paradise

This guy has wire-like bits growing out of his feathers, not to mention his dashing sports car color scheme.

Wilson's Bird-of-Paradise

This bird is so iridescent, it's hard to believe he's real. He has a charming song too.

Magnificent Riflebird

He's some sort of supervillainbird! His blue neck feathers are mesmerizing.

Lesser Bird-of-Paradise

He may be named "lesser," but his song is greater than all the rest.

Western Parotia

Aww. He has a "ballerina dance." Adorable!