bird of paradise

". The Indonesian provinces of Papua and West Papua on the island of New Guinea constitute the country of Papua, or "Tanah Papua" in the Indonesian language. This region is home to one of the only large tropical forests in the world and is home to almost half of Indonesia's biodiversity. More than 600 species of birds are found in Papua, including 27 species of paradisiacal birds, many of which do not live anywhere else on earth. Global interest in Papua's birdlife leads to increased opportunities for wildlife tourism and brings new economic benefits to local communities. Sustainable development is not only important for the future of the forests and people of Papua, but also for the world. Cornell Lab's Birds-of-Paradise project works with the governments of Papua and West Papua and other international partners to advance science, engagement and biodiversity conservation in the region with a focus on birds of paradise.