The impact of man on Birds of Paradise in the Jimi Valley

Abstract

In this paper I discuss the impact of man on populations of several species of Birds of Paradise (Paradisacidae) in the Jimi Valley, Western Highlands area of Papua New Guinea. Although the importance of Bird of Paradise plumes in the cultures of New Guinea people is well known, little systematic attention has been given to the effects of human alteration of habitat and predation on the birds. It is often supposed that the greatest single threat to the survival of Birds of Paradise is the clearing of forest for food gardens to support a growing rural population and to make way for commercial ventures. Some authorities assert that hunting pressure seems to have little impact on the numbers of birds.