Flying Casanovas

Combining architecture, nature photography and avian sexual practices, this NOVA ("mind-altering television") episode considers the bowerbird, a species of tropical bird whose males construct elaborate structures in order to attract females. Small and drab by their New Guinea rainforest home's plumage standards, bowerbirds turn out to be determined little engineers, acting out what might have been a subconscious desire on the part of thrice-married Frank Lloyd Wright: attracting female companionship by dint of astounding architectural accomplishment. Stunning camerawork, interesting facts, and solid narration from nature guru David Attenborough come together in this fine overview of the bowerbirds and the intricate little sculptures of sticks, feathers, flowers and stones they create…for love. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (M. Tribby)