The birds of paradise are very diverse, but characteristic of them is the extremely colorful plumage and the presence of very ornamental feathers, sometimes on the head and sometimes in the tail.

There is strong sexual dimorphism in birds of paradise - females are less colorful, with grays dominating in their plumage.The purpose of such inconspicuous coloration is to be able to blend in with the environment.  Younger males resemble females, and it takes them about 7 years to develop beautiful colors. This makes it easier for them to hide from predators and adult males do not treat them as competitors.