BIODIVERSITY SPOTLIGHT

PAPUAN HORNBILL

The Papuan Hornbill is easily recognized by its casque, a hollow keratin structure on top of its bill that acts as a resonating chamber to amplify its calls. Males are distinguished by their orange neck feathers, while females have blue, making them easy to tell apart. These birds are omnivores, feeding mainly on fruits but also consuming insects and small animals. Their bills are highly adapted—the tips function like fingers for plucking fruit, and the serrated, saw-like edges help them grasp and tear food. Papuan Hornbills usually travel in pairs or in larger flocks, moving between fruiting trees in search of their next meal.

RAGGIANA BIRD OF PARADISE

Raggiana bird of paradise known as ‘Kumul’ in Tok Pisin, this iconic species is part of an International Breeding Program to protect its future. The chick was abandoned by its mother and after being carefully nurtured on a special diet of pinkie rats, papaya and bird-of-paradise mix, it is now thriving and displaying natural behaviors in its new aviary. This incredible achievement supports wildlife conservation efforts and campaigns like ‘Lukautim Bilas Bilong Yu’, which aims to reduce wild harvesting of birds of paradise.

ELLA

Ella, the spotted cuscus, was rescued by the RSPCA in June 2024 and brought to Port Moresby Nature Park in a fragile state, underweight and injured. With dedicated care from staff and volunteers, she recovered and now thrives as a beloved member of the park. At 10 months old, Ella interacts confidently with keepers, VIPs, and sponsors, symbolizing the success of the park’s Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Release Program. Her story also supports the park’s “Do Not Buy Wildlife As Pets” campaign, reminding people to protect native species and preserve the natural balance by keeping wildlife in the wild.

ECHIDNAS 

The Echidna is a truly remarkable mammal, known for its unique ability to lay eggs. These egg-laying mammals are classified as monotremes, and Papua New Guinea is home to two of the three known monotremes in the world - the long-beaked echidna and the short-beaked echidna. The third monotreme, the platypus, is found exclusively in Australia.

Female echidnas typically lay a single egg once a year, which is then carefully rolled into a protective pocket on their belly. Approximately ten days later, a tiny creature known as a puggle hatches from the egg. This puggle is smaller than a jelly bean and relies on the mother’s milk, secreted from special glands on her belly, for nourishment.

VICTORIA CROWNED PIGEON

The Victoria Crowned Pigeon is a magnificent ground bird known for its impressive size, measuring between 28 to 30 inches from head to tail. Despite their large size, these birds are relatively light, weighing an average of seven pounds, which is about 3kg.

You can often catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures wandering around the World War II Aviary, gracefully searching for food on the ground. Come visit us today at Nature Park and experience the beauty of the Victoria Crowned Pigeons up close.

MOUNTAIN PIGEON (Gymnophaps albertisii)

A true gem of New Guinea’s mountainous landscapes! Found in the majestic Owen Stanley and Bismarck Ranges, these stunning birds also make their home at the Port Moresby Nature Park.

Did you know that these medium-sized pigeons boast a striking white band across their foreheads? Their iridescent feathers shimmer in the sunlight, creating a dazzling display that is sure to enchant any birdwatcher. They are not just beautiful; they play an essential role in their ecosystem as seed dispersers, helping to maintain a rich diversity of plant species.

FUN FACT

DID YOU KNOW?

(1) The eyelashes of the hornbill are modified feathers.

(2) The Raggiana appears on PNG’s national flag and emblem.

(3) Echidnas are insectivores, primarily feeding on ants and termites, and they use their long, sticky tongues to capture their prey.