17 Oct 2023

Sunrise with Birds-of-Paradise

With lightning flashing on the horizon we left disembarked Heritage Adventurer at 0430am to find 20 taxis at Waisai ready to take us to the jungle for a sunrise encounter with Indonesia's famous Wilson's and Red Birds-of-Paradise.

Most popular was the Wilson's Bird-of-Paradise as we wound our way through tall wet rainforest to a canvas hide right next to the lekking trees of the exquisite male bird. He appeared right at dawn and did his beautiful dance for nearly 30 minutes clearing every single leaf off his display area. Disappearing into the jungle the shimmering turquoise skin at the back of his head and spectacular curved tail feathers was cherished by everyone in the hide in a morning never to be forgotten. He briefly appeared for an encore, before vanishing among jungle.

Those who walked up a hill to see 10 Red Bird-of-Paradise displaying their courtship dance and feathers were equally rewarded. While in the trees it was relatively easy to enjoy incredible observations of this rare and privileged sight. 

Those choosing to sleep in were treated to another wonderful Raja Ampat snorkel 10 kilometres from the ship at Friven Island. After many being up since 0330, afternoon kips were enjoyed.

Images © S. Bradley, Heritage Expeditions