Oilbird
NameOilbird
Common NameOilbird
Scientific NameSteatornis caripensis
FamilySteatornithidae
Wingspan (cm)98
Length (cm)44.5
Weight (g)417.5
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly reddish-brown, heavily mottled and streaked with black, and marked with prominent white spots, especially on the head, neck, and wings. The underparts are paler with fewer spots.
Vocalization / CallOilbirds produce a variety of harsh, guttural screeches, clicks, and squawks, particularly when disturbed in their caves. They also emit audible clicks for echolocation.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatscaves, tropical forests, subtropical forests
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in northern South America, including Trinidad, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and parts of Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesNocturnal and cave-dwelling, Uses echolocation, Large, hooked bill with prominent rictal bristles, Reddish-brown plumage with white spots, Frugivorous diet
Description
The Oilbird is a unique nocturnal bird, known for its cave-dwelling habits and use of echolocation to navigate in darkness. It is the only nocturnal, fruit-eating bird that uses echolocation, foraging on the fruits of oil palms and tropical laurels.
