Oilbird
NameOilbird
Common NameOilbird
Scientific NameSteatornis caripensis
FamilySteatornithidae
Wingspan (cm)98
Length (cm)45
Weight (g)415
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is a rich reddish-brown, heavily mottled and barred with black and white spots, particularly on the head, neck, and wings. The underparts are paler, often buffy with dark barring.
Vocalization / CallOilbirds produce a variety of harsh, guttural screeches, squawks, and clicks. The clicks are used for echolocation to navigate in dark caves, while the other vocalizations are often alarm calls or social communications.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatscaves, tropical forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in northern South America, including Trinidad, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and parts of Brazil. They inhabit caves in mountainous or hilly regions within tropical forests.
Identifying FeaturesNocturnal and cave-dwelling, Uses echolocation, Large, forward-facing eyes, Strong, hooked bill, Reddish-brown plumage with white spots, Frugivorous diet (specializing in palm fruits)
Description
The Oilbird is a nocturnal, cave-dwelling bird found in northern South America. It is unique for being the only nocturnal frugivore and for using echolocation to navigate in complete darkness within its cave habitats.
