Birds
Paradise Jacamar
Galbula dea
Trailing unusually long, elegant tail streamers found on no other jacamar species, a paradise jacamar flashes iridescent blue-green from its canopy perch high above the Amazon basin rainforest floor.
Overview
The paradise jacamar, Galbula dea, is a Least Concern bird found in the upper canopy of Amazon basin rainforest across much of northern and central South America. Its unusually long tail streamers, striking black-and-iridescent-blue plumage, and canopy-dwelling habits set it apart from the shorter-tailed, lower-foraging jacamar species that share its range.
A jacamar built for elegance
While most jacamars sport relatively short tails, the paradise jacamar’s long, trailing feathers give it a uniquely graceful silhouette in flight, a visual distinction matched by its preference for the sunlit upper canopy over the shadier forest understory favoured by its relatives.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread across suitable Amazon basin rainforest canopy habitat throughout its range.
Paradise Jacamar: common questions
What makes the paradise jacamar's tail unusual?
It carries notably long, elegant tail streamers unlike the shorter tails typical of most other jacamar species, giving it an especially graceful appearance in flight.
How can you identify a paradise jacamar?
Look for mostly black plumage with a shimmering iridescent blue-green sheen, set off by a bright white throat patch.
Where in the forest does the paradise jacamar live?
It favors the upper canopy of Amazon basin rainforest rather than lower forest levels, unlike some other jacamar species that forage closer to the ground.
How does the paradise jacamar catch its food?
It catches flying insects such as butterflies and dragonflies in mid-air sallies, then strikes the prey against a branch to remove wings before swallowing it.