10 Amazing Birds With Long Tail Feathers

Birds With Long Tail Feathers

Birds with long tail feathers exhibit remarkable adaptations and striking beauty. From the elegant Red-billed Tropicbird soaring over tropical seas to the acrobatic Long-tailed Manakin performing intricate courtship dances, these avian marvels captivate with their grace and allure. Their elongated tails serve various purposes, from aerial maneuverability to courtship displays, showcasing nature’s ingenuity.

1.Resplendent Quetzal

The Resplendent Quetzal, revered in Mayan and Aztec cultures, is a symbol of freedom and beauty. With iridescent green plumage and long tail feathers, it epitomizes the splendor of the tropical cloud forests.

Resplendent Quetzal Biography

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Resplendent Quetzal
Scientific Name	Pharomachrus mocinno
Country	Africa, including Guatemala and Costa Rica
Number of Eggs	Typically2eggsinaclutch
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 18 to 19 days
Diet	Africa, including countries like Guatemala and Costa Rica
Habitat	Montane cloud forests and temperate rainforests
Migration (yes or no)	Generally resident, with altitudinal migrations
Body Size	Approximately 13 to 16 inches (33 to 40 cm)
Body Weight	About 4.2 to 6.5 ounces (120 to 185 grams)
Dangerous for Humans	Not dangerous to humans
Maximum Flight Height	Typically seen flying or perching in the canopy of cloud forests
Weather	Conditions, often seen in montane forests
Birds (yes or no)	Yes, it’s a bird

2.Long Tailed Widowbird

The Long-tailed Widowbird, native to Africa’s grasslands, is known for its striking breeding plumage. Males sport long, black tail feathers, up to half a meter in length, which they display in elaborate aerial courtship displays. These avian acrobats captivate with their agility and dazzling aerial performances during mating season.

Long Tailed Widowbird Biography

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Long-tailed Widowbird
Scientific Name	Euplectes progne
Country	Varies across sub-Saharan Africa
Number of Eggs	Typically 2-4 eggs
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 11-12 days
Diet	Seeds, insects, and small invertebrates
Habitat	Grasslands and savannas
Migration (yes or no)	Non-migratory, mostly sedentary
Body Size	Approximately 20 cm (8 inches)
Body Weight	Males: around 42 grams; Females: around 28 grams
Dangerous for Humans	No known threats to humans
Maximum Flight Height	Typically low-level flights, exact height may vary
Weather	Prefers warm and dry weather, adapted to varying conditions
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	Various species within the genus Euplectes
Total Color	Male: Black with iridescent blue and red markings; Female: Brown with streaks

3.Superb Lyrebird

The Superb Lyrebird, native to Australia, is a master of mimicry and renowned for its elaborate tail display. Males boast elegant lyre-shaped plumes, while their rich vocal repertoire imitates a myriad of sounds, from chainsaws to car alarms. These remarkable birds embody the enchantment of Australia’s ancient forests.

Superb Lyrebird Biography

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Superb Lyrebird
Scientific Name	Menura novaehollandiae
Country	Australia
Number of Eggs	1
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 50 days
Diet	Insects, small vertebrates, seeds, and fruits
Habitat	Dense forests and rainforests of southeastern Australia
Migration (yes or no)	No
Body Size	80 to 100 cm (including the tail)
Body Weight	800 to 1200 grams
Dangerous for Humans	No
Maximum Flight Height	Primarily ground-dwelling, limited flight capability
Weather	Prefers mild and wet climates
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	One
Total Color	Males: Shiny black with silver and brown plumage, Females: Brown with lighter spots

4.Peacock

The Peacock, a symbol of beauty and elegance, boasts extravagant plumage adorned with iridescent hues of blue and green. Males flaunt their stunning tail feathers, or “train,” in elaborate courtship displays to attract females. Revered across cultures, these majestic birds embody grace and splendor in their natural habitat.

Peacock Biography

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Peacock
Scientific Name	Pavo cristatus
Country	Native to South Asia, but also introduced in other regions
Number of Eggs	4-8 eggs per clutch
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 28 days
Diet	Omnivorous, eats seeds, insects, fruits, and small animals
Habitat	Forests, grasslands, and near water sources
Migration (yes or no)	No
Body Size	Male: 100-120 cm; Female: Smaller than males
Body Weight	Male: 4-6 kg; Female: 2.75-4 kg
Dangerous for Humans	Generally not dangerous, but males can be aggressive during mating season
Maximum Flight Height	Peacocks are not strong fliers, mostly prefer short flights
Weather	Well adapted to various climates, but prefer warmer regions
Birds (yes or no)	Yes, peafowl includes males (peacocks) and females (peahens)
Total Types	Three main types: Indian Peafowl, Green Peafowl, and Congo Peafowl
Total Color	Iridescent blues, greens, and browns in males; more subdued colors in females

5.Red Crowned Crane

The Red-crowned Crane, an emblem of longevity and fidelity in East Asian culture, inhabits wetlands and grasslands. With its graceful stature and striking red crown, it captivates observers. Endangered due to habitat loss, conservation efforts aim to preserve this iconic symbol of beauty and cultural significance.

Red Crowned Crane Biography

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Red-crowned Crane
Scientific Name	Grus japonensis
Country	Various (Asia, Russia)
Number of Eggs	2
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 30 days
Diet	Omnivorous (plants, insects, small animals)
Habitat	Wetlands, marshes, rivers
Migration (yes or no)	Yes
Body Size	Large
Body Weight	4.5 to 6.3 kg
Dangerous for Humans	Generally not dangerous, but can be territorial during breeding season
Maximum Flight Height	10,000 feet (3,000 meters)
Weather	Cold regions, can endure harsh winter conditions
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	1
Total Color	White with red crown on head

6.Indian Paradise Flycatcher

The Indian Paradise Flycatcher, with its ethereal beauty, enchants with its long, trailing tail feathers and graceful aerial displays. Found across the Indian subcontinent, this migratory bird symbolizes exoticism and elegance. Its flowing white plumage and dramatic courtship dances evoke a sense of wonder in nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.

Indian Paradise Flycatcher Biography

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Indian Paradise Flycatcher
Scientific Name	Terpsiphone paradisi
Country	India, Southeast Asia
Number of Eggs	2
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 12-14 days
Diet	Insects, especially flying ones
Habitat	Forests, woodlands, gardens
Migration (yes or no)	Partial migrant
Body Size	Small
Body Weight	11-15 grams (approx.)
Dangerous for Humans	No
Maximum Flight Height	Up to 30 meters
Weather	Prefers tropical climates
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	Several subspecies
Total Color	Male: White with long tail streamers, Female: Rufous with short tail streamers

7.African Paradise Flycatcher

The African Paradise Flycatcher, found in sub-Saharan Africa, dazzles with its vibrant plumage and elegant long tail feathers. Males display striking variations of red, chestnut, or white plumage during breeding season. Known for its agile flight and melodious calls, this bird embodies the allure of Africa’s diverse ecosystems.

African Paradise Flycatcher Biography

Aspect	Information
Species Name	African Paradise Flycatcher
Scientific Name	Terpsiphone viridis
Country	Various countries in Africa
Number of Eggs	2 to 4
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 14 days
Diet	Insects, especially flying ones
Habitat	Woodlands, savannas, gardens
Migration (yes or no)	Partial migrant
Body Size	Small
Body Weight	13 to 17 grams
Dangerous for Humans	Not dangerous
Maximum Flight Height	Up to 30 meters
Weather	Prefers warm climates
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	Several subspecies
Total Color	Vivid colors, including blue, white, and red

8.Wilson’s Bird of Paradise

Wilson’s Bird of Paradise, endemic to Indonesia, is famed for its mesmerizing courtship display. Males exhibit vibrant plumage and intricate dance routines to attract mates. Found in the remote rainforests of Papua, their iridescent colors and elaborate rituals epitomize the enchantment of tropical biodiversity, captivating birdwatchers and researchers alike.

Wilson’s Bird of Paradise Biography

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Wilson’s Bird-of-Paradise
Scientific Name	Cicinnurus respublica
Country	Indonesia
Number of Eggs	1-2
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 18 days
Diet	Insects, fruits, and arthropods
Habitat	Lowland rainforests
Migration (yes or no)	No
Body Size	Small
Body Weight	About 50 grams
Dangerous for Humans	No
Maximum Flight Height	Not well-documented
Weather	Tropical climate
Birds (yes or no)	Yes (other bird species)
Total Types	About 50 species
Total Color	Males: Vibrant colors; Females: Brown

9.Long Tailed Manakin

The Long-tailed Manakin, native to Central and South America, captivates with its vibrant plumage and intricate courtship displays. Males perform synchronized dances in “lekking” grounds to attract mates. Found in tropical forests, these charismatic birds symbolize the beauty and biodiversity of their lush habitats, delighting birdwatchers worldwide.

Long Tailed Manakin Biography

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Long-tailed Manakin
Scientific Name	Chiroxiphia linearis
Country	Found in Central and South America
Number of Eggs	Typically 2 eggs
Incubation Period for Eggs	About 18 days
Diet	Fruits, insects, and small arthropods
Habitat	Tropical rainforests and wooded areas
Migration	No
Body Size	Small
Body Weight	About 15-20 grams
Dangerous for Humans	No
Maximum Flight Height	Can vary, generally low
Weather	Prefers warm and humid climates
Birds	Yes
Total Types	Varies
Total Color	Vibrant colors, including green, black, and red

10.Greater Bird of Paradise

The Greater Bird-of-Paradise, native to New Guinea, is renowned for its stunning plumage and elaborate courtship rituals. Males display vibrant colors and intricate dances on traditional display perches, mesmerizing females. Found in tropical rainforests, these iconic birds symbolize the splendor of biodiversity and captivate with their exotic allure.

Greater Bird of Paradise Biography

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Greater Bird-of-Paradise
Scientific Name	Paradisaea apoda
Country	Found in New Guinea and nearby islands
Number of Eggs	Typically 1 to 2
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 18 days
Diet	Fruits, insects, and arthropods
Habitat	Rainforests and lowland forests
Migration (yes or no)	No
Body Size	Approximately 33 to 43 cm
Body Weight	Around 250 to 430 grams
Dangerous for Humans	No
Maximum Flight Height	Information not readily available
Weather	Prefers tropical climates
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	Multiple species within the genus Paradisaea
Total Color	Vibrant colors, including iridescent feathers

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of avian beauty is enriched by the presence of these extraordinary birds with long tail feathers. From the resplendent peacock to the elegant lyrebird, each species captivates with its unique charm and remarkable adaptations. Their graceful displays and vibrant plumage remind us of the endless wonders of nature.

FAQS

Which bird has the longest tail feathers?

The Ribbon-tailed Astrapia boasts the longest tail feathers, reaching up to a meter in length.

Where can I find the Long-tailed Manakin?

Long-tailed Manakins are found in the tropical forests of Central and South America.

What is the symbolic significance of the peacock?

The peacock symbolizes beauty, elegance, and resurrection in various cultures across the world.

How do male birds use their long tail feathers?

Male birds use their long tail feathers for courtship displays, attracting mates through elaborate dances and displays.

Are any of these birds endangered?

Yes, some of these birds, like the Red-crowned Crane and the Greater Bird-of-Paradise, are classified as endangered.