(See upper figure on the plate at the commencement of this chapter.) The female of this little gem is such a plainly coloured bird, that it can at first sight hardly be believed to belong to the same species.

The upper surface is of a dull earthy brown, a slight tinge of orange red appearing only on the margins of the quills.

Beneath, it is of a paler yellowish brown, scaled and banded with narrow dusky markings.

The young males are exactly like the female, and they no doubt undergo a series of changes as singular as those of Paradisea rubra; but, unfortunately, I was unable to obtain illustrative specimens.
This exquisite little creature frequents the smaller trees in the thickest parts of the forest, feeding on various fruits; often of a very large size for so small a bird.

It is very active both on its wings and feet, and makes a whirring sound while flying, something like the South American manakins.