Ed Scholes (left) and Tim Laman at work in a New Guinea treetop. Photo by Tim Laman.
Visit the Birds-of-Paradise Project Website
Our Birds-of-Paradise Project website takes you inside the world of these spectacular birds to show you how they create their complex displays. Using 35 high-definition videos, plus animations, slideshows, and interactive features, we bring you vivid, up-close examples accompanied by commentary from project co-creators Ed Scholes and Tim Laman. You'll be able to see and understand what's going on at a level of detail that's unprecedented for any group of animals—it's almost like going into the forests of New Guinea yourself.
Order the Book
The Cornell Lab and National Geographic have copublished the gorgeous coffee table book Birds of Paradise: Revealing the World's Most Extraordinary Birds (at left), presenting all 39 species of birds-of-paradise with spectacular photographs. The book reveals details of the birds' behavior, natural environment, and behavior, along with history of their discovery from Magellan's voyage to Alfred Russel Wallace to the modern-day adventures of Tim Laman and Ed Scholes. Find it in bookstores or order it online from the Wild Birds Unlimited store at Sapsucker Woods.
See the Museum Exhibit
Fascinating stories of research and adventure are the foundation of this highly interactive exhibition developed by National Geographic and the Cornell Lab. The exhibition captures all 39 species with stunning imagery, video, soundscapes, artifacts, and engaging educational activities for all ages. Currently on view through May 2013 at the National Geographic Museum in Washington, DC, the exhibit will tour the country with dates and locations announced as they become available.
Educators: Teach With Birds-of-Paradise Lesson Plans
The Cornell Lab's BirdSleuth K-12 project has adapted the materials from the Birds-of-Paradise Project for use in the classroom. The lesson plans have been designed to meet Framework for K-12 Science Education expectations. Download the free lessons here.
Watch the Trailer
If you're not familiar with the Birds-of-Paradise Project, this video trailer captures the astounding beauty of the birds and the sense of determination and discovery of the two scientists who dreamed up the project and saw it through.