Frilled Parotia

The Frilled Parotia, Parotia chlamicollis is a species of a parotia. It is considered vulnerable because of the destruction of its habitat, however; its populations seem to be steadily going up.

Other names
Green-necked Parotia

Description
Unmistakable. The male is a rich satiny, black plumage. "Skirt" is iridescent green bordered with grey. Frills on side of the neck are bright green, but may not be noticeable in thick canopy, as it does refract light. Females are similar except they lack the frill and skirt. Eyes are bright blue. Bill, legs and feet are a greenish-black. Both sexes have 6-8 wires on their heads.

Similar species
It is similar to other parotias, but they lack the frill on the side of the neck. Ranges do not overlap with other species.

Diet
It feeds mostly on fruits and insects.

Calls
Khh kaakkk. Some nasal twitterings, may not be heard from far away.

It is one of the most common species that can be heard in the dawn chorus.

Reproduction
Males form leks in which females may come to. During courtship, they perform ballerina-like dances and spread out their "skirt" on a patch of forest floor they have meticulously cleaned of dead leaves and other debris. The "ballerina dances" usually consist of the male hopping from foot and bobbing their heads from side to side.

Distribution/habitat
It is only found in Devonshire and Shire.