Logo by Alan Parente
Blue Bird-of-Paradise
Photograph courtesy Tim LamanFound only in New Guinea and parts of Australia, the birds-of-paradise are a case study in the evolutionary power of sexual selection. Their fantastic plumes and bizarre courtship displays are a result of millions of years of sexual selection at work in an environment with plentiful food and no natural predators.
Kids receive free admission Thursdays, sponsored by Animal Jam.
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In 2004, Cornell University Lab of Ornithology scientist Edwin Scholes and field biologist and National Geographic photographer Tim Laman set out to complete the first comprehensive study of all birds-of-paradise. After 8 years and 18 expeditions they have amassed photographic and video coverage of all 39 known species and documented several new behaviors.
Fascinating stories of groundbreaking research and adventure paired with amazing footage and photography are the foundation of this highly interactive exhibition. “Birds of Paradise” captures these unique species, with stunning imagery, compelling video, soundscapes, artifacts, engaging educational activities, and supplementary programming for all ages.
This exhibition was developed by National Geographic and The Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
Generous support has been provided by:
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View a listing of exhibitions currently on view at National Geographic Museum in Washington, D.C.
Join photographer Tim Laman and ornithologist Ed Scholes as they recount their wild and hairy adventures in the New Guinea rain forest in search of some of nature’s most extraordinary wonders—the birds of paradise.
Plan your special event in the interactive exhibition Birds of Paradise: Amazing Avian Evolution.
Join National Geographic for a one-of-a-kind day, perfect for the birder, biologist and nature-lover alike!
Join National Geographic for a one-of-a-kind day, perfect for the birder, biologist, and nature-lover alike!
Learn what it takes to be a nature writer at National Geographic Magazine!
Real Pirates,
Washington, D.C.
March 8, 2013 – September 2, 2013
Gardens by Night,
Washington, D.C.
February 15, 2013 – September 8, 2013
Free
Beyond the Story 2012,
Washington, D.C.
February 8, 2013 – July 7, 2013
Free
National Geographic Bee 2013,
Washington, D.C.
May 22, 2013, None
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 25, 2013, 12:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 25, 2013, 1:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 25, 2013, 2:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 25, 2013, 3:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 26, 2013, 12:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 26, 2013, 1:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 26, 2013, 2:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 26, 2013, 3:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 27, 2013, 12:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 27, 2013, 1:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 27, 2013, 2:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 27, 2013, 3:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 28, 2013, 12:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 28, 2013, 1:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 28, 2013, 2:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 28, 2013, 3:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 29, 2013, 12:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 29, 2013, 1:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 29, 2013, 2:00 p.m.
Meerkats 3D,
Washington, D.C.
May 29, 2013, 3:00 p.m.
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