cerulean paradise flycatcher
Living on a single Indonesian island, the heavenly Cerulean Paradise-Flycatcher is an insectivore that prefers old-growth forests on steep-sided valley slopes, or valleys with streams. It takes its pray in flight through looping sallies and quick descents. Deforestation for agriculture and encroachment by non-native trees on its habitat have brought the Flycatcher’s numbers down to critical levels. This bird lives near the maximum altitude in its range in the mountains, making it susceptible to climate change. Landslides also represent a growing threat, and its preferred habitat may entirely disappear from its island. The Cerulean Paradise-Flycatcher is the only member of its genus; the planet will lose a very distinctive bird when it goes extinct.
Art by Regina Agu