Moluccan Owlet-nightjar
NameMoluccan Owlet-nightjar
Common NameMoluccan Owlet-nightjar
Scientific NameAegotheles crinifrons
FamilyAegothelidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)23
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsPlumage is predominantly dark brown, heavily mottled and barred with lighter brown, rufous, and white markings, providing excellent camouflage. It has a relatively large head, large dark reddish-brown eyes, and very long, stiff rictal bristles extending from the base of its short, broad bill.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of soft, purring or trilling notes, often accelerating into a rapid trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Moluccas (Maluku Islands) in eastern Indonesia, specifically found on the islands of Halmahera, Bacan, Morotai, and Obi.
Identifying FeaturesLarge reddish-brown eyes, Prominent rictal bristles, Cryptic mottled brown plumage, Nocturnal habits, Relatively small size, Short, broad bill
Description
The Moluccan Owlet-nightjar is a small, nocturnal bird characterized by its cryptic brown plumage and large, reddish-brown eyes. It is an insectivore, typically found roosting camouflaged in dense forest during the day and actively hunting insects at night.
