The great bower bird is known for its mating rituals that take place in tall arched structures made with gatherings from their native bush in New Guinea and Australia.
The male bower bird loves to show-off. He performs in the court of his edifice to prospective females, picking up bits of food and decoration and tossing them about, all the while displaying the pink feathers on the back of his head. If the female is impressed mating takes place.
A research study (you can read about it here) has just revealed that the birds are accomplished engineers. Their buildings enhance and amplify the sounds that accompany the performances, and , along with the display and trinkets, help to increase the male’s presence. In addition, the walls of the bower include edible items: plant matter glued into place with saliva.
The impressive feats of the great bower bird do not end there. Another study found that they have an artistic bent, using perspective to enhance their material and bowers. Truly a case of “Dinner and a show”!
Thank you to the reader who sent this fascinating link in.
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