In the midst of the dense wilderness of the remote Foja Mountains in Papua, lies an invaluable natural wonder: the goldie bird-of-paradise (Parotia berlepschi), one of the rarest and most endemic bird species in the world. This bird is not found anywhere else on Earth, making it a symbol of biodiversity as well as a reminder of the fragility of Indonesia’s tropical rainforest ecosystem.
As quoted from various sources, the goldi bird-of-paradise is recorded to have the most limited distribution area among all types of birds-of-paradise. The entire population is only found in an area of approximately 10,000 hectares in the Foja Mountains, at an altitude of 1,200 to 1,800 meters above sea level.
The uniqueness of this bird lies not only in the limited range of its habitat but also in its stunning physical characteristics. The male bird is known for its very distinctive and spectacular courtship dance, showcasing its shimmering feathers and captivating movements to attract the female. This phenomenon has become one of the most astonishing natural attractions that are rarely witnessed in person.
The Foja Mountains themselves are an area that is almost untouched by humans. Geographical isolation for many years has made this area a natural laboratory, where various species have developed without outside interference.
In recent decades, limited scientific expeditions have uncovered a number of new flora and fauna species from this region, including the Goldie’s bird-of-paradise, which has now become a focal point in global conservation efforts. Biologists and conservationists emphasize the importance of preserving the Foja Mountains.
“This is not just about one bird species, but about a complex ecosystem that is interdependent.” “If this habitat is disturbed, we risk losing more than we can imagine,” said a researcher from LIPI.
With its very rare status and limited habitat, the goldie bird of paradise has become an important symbol in the efforts to preserve Indonesia’s nature. Maintaining its existence is not only the responsibility of scientists or the government, but also the entire global community that cares about the survival of living beings on this planet.
https://www.rri.co.id/lain-lain/1447591/cenderawasih-goldi-burung-yang-hidup-di-pegunungan-papua
West Papua Now 