Birds of Paradise

Why do birds of paradise have such colourful feathers and elaborate dances? And what can they see that we can't?

From bright, shimmering feathers to remarkable courtship displays, birds of paradise are some of the most colourful creatures on Earth. But their striking appearance isn't just for show. Their colours, patterns and movements play an important role in attracting mates and communicating with other birds.

In this podcast, University of Sheffield evolutionary biologist Dr Christopher Cooney joins artists Jo Veal and Patrick Amber to explore the science behind bird colours, animal behaviour and evolution.

Together, they discuss why birds have evolved such different appearances, how their ability to see ultraviolet light changes their view of the world, and what their feathers can tell us about how animals communicate.

They also share the creative process behind their Festival of the Mind installation, Birds of Paradise, featuring giant bird sculptures inspired by the greater bird of paradise and flame bowerbird. Using materials including willow, paper and fabric, the artists explore how colour, texture and movement can bring the science of these remarkable birds to life.

Listen to discover how art and evolutionary biology come together to reveal the hidden world of bird vision, why birds look and behave the way they do, and what we might notice if we looked a little closer at the nature around us.