This makes the species one of the dullest-coloured members of the bowerbird family with, however, one of the largest and most elaborate bowers.

On this, and in the entrance of the bower, decorations such as colourful flowers or fruit, shining beetle elytra, dead leaves and other conspicuous objects are collected and artistically arranged.

Males go to great lengths to ensure that their displays are in prime condition, replacing old items as needed, as well as trying to outdo their neighbours by finding more spectacular decorations, and arranging them appropriately.

Females visit bowers and, depending on whether they like the "treasure trove" on display, will mate with the attendant males.

In September 1872, Odoardo Beccari became the first naturalist to see the home grounds of this bowerbird in the Arfak Mountains of Irian Jaya.