We promise that you’ve never seen these birds on Animal Planet. They’re rare, exotic, and a must see on your radar. Because from super horned birdies from South America, to the crowned kings of the jungle, these 20 colorfully awesome birds will leave you wondering how those TV shows ever missed them.
1.) Wilson’s Bird-of-Paradise
Oddly, the turquoise crown of the male is actually a patch of bare skin, not feathers.
2.) Long-Tailed Widowbird
Hailing from South Africa, the male of the species can have a tail over 16 inches long.
3.) Lilac-Breasted Roller
He gets his name from an impressive courtship flight that dives in short bursts and motions, accompanied by loud noises.
4.) D’Arnaud’s Barbet
This is one of 42 barbet species, all of which are found in sub-Saharan Africa.
7.) King of Saxony Bird-of-Paradise
It’s horns are so random, that Europeans thought they were fake when first imported.
8.) Malabar Pied Hornbill
The tribal people of central India believed that hanging a skull of the hornbill brought wealth.
9.) Royal Flycatcher
Flying like a fan until it wants to mate, this “crown” is a unique characteristic of this rare bird.
11.) Splendid Fairywren
This odd male changes color to bright blue when mating. Otherwise, they’re pink like their female counterparts.
12.) Horned Sungem
A South American hummingbird that’s known to be quite annoying, even if it’s pretty.
13.) Resplendent Quetzal
This is the national bird of Guatemala, and it’s even found on their money.
15.) Kea
Known as the only parrot found south of New Zealand, they’re known to be incredibly intelligent.
(via Distractify)
Why can’t any of those birds ever show up around my house? Those gray pigeons just aren’t doing it for me anymore. I guess it’s off to South America then!
