Large Frogmouth
NameLarge Frogmouth
Common NameLarge Frogmouth
Scientific NameBatrachostomus auritus
FamilyPodargidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)40.5
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsPlumage is highly cryptic, a mottled mix of browns, greys, and rufous tones, often streaked and barred with darker markings. Males tend to be paler and greyer, while females are more rufous. Both sexes have white spots or patches on the wing coverts and scapulars, aiding in their camouflage.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of soft, mournful hoots or whistles, often described as 'whoo-whoo-whoo' or a frog-like croaking sound. Calls are typically given at night.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound in Southeast Asia, specifically on the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo, inhabiting primary and secondary lowland rainforests.
Identifying Featurescryptic plumage resembling bark, very large, broad head and bill, wide gape, nocturnal habits, often perches vertically to mimic a broken branch
Description
The Large Frogmouth is a nocturnal bird known for its superb camouflage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with tree bark or dead leaves. It possesses a very large, broad bill and a wide gape, used for catching insects in flight. These birds typically perch motionless during the day, often mimicking a broken branch.
