Ocellated Poorwill
NameOcellated Poorwill
Common NameOcellated Poorwill
Scientific NameNyctiphrynus ocellatus
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)35
Length (cm)19.5
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsMottled brown and rufous plumage with intricate patterns, providing excellent camouflage. It features a prominent white band across the throat and white tips on the outer tail feathers. The eyes are large and dark.
Vocalization / CallIts call is typically described as a soft, whistled "wheer" or "whip-wheer," often repeated, which can be heard at dusk and dawn.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central and South America, from southern Mexico through Central America to northern South America, including parts of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesCryptic mottled brown plumage, Prominent white throat band, Large dark eyes, White tips on outer tail feathers, Nocturnal behavior
Description
The Ocellated Poorwill is a small, nocturnal nightjar known for its superb camouflage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with its forest environment. It typically rests horizontally on branches during the day, becoming active at dusk to hunt insects in flight.
