Birds of Paradise

Trekking to the coffee grove

         Papua New Guinea has long been a favorite destination for serious birders. This group of islands holds myriad species, including 42 different types of Bird of Paradise, which can only be found in this region of the world. Dr. Bill and Marsha McCoy, two of our long-term missionaries at Kudjip, are terrific birders and they have shared their enthusiasm (and binoculars) with many people over the years. Soon, the McCoys will retire and return to the States, but before they do, they are rising up a new generation of birders: showing us their special birding sites, introducing us to local guides, and imparting birding tips that they have gathered over the years. 

Ragianna silhouette

Ragianna close-up
Credit: Australian Geographic

         Recently, Bill took a group of us on a sunrise expedition to a village less than 20 minutes from Kudjip. After arriving at his local friend's house, we trekked a short distance into a coffee grove that is shadowed by tall pine trees. High in the trees, silhouetted against the early morning light, we saw nearly a dozen Ragianna Bird of Paradise dancing, displaying their ornate feathers, and calling to their mates. It was amazing to see so many so close together. 

Erin spotting the Superb
Bird of Paradise

Superb close-up
Credit: San Diego Zoo

 If that wasn't enough, we later found a Superb Bird of Paradise flashing his characteristic neck feathers high in a tree. Although we weren’t close enough to see the stunning blue plumage characteristic of his mating dance, we were all enthralled by this small but showy bird. No one was happier than Erin, who has heard the call of the Superb many times in her 10 years in PNG, but never actually saw one until this trip. 

Bill mentoring Matt

Bill definitely ignited a new enthusiasm for birding in this group of younger missionaries. Hopefully we can carry on his legacy for many more years to come.