Sri Lanka Frogmouth
Image: Shanthanu Bhardwaj (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameSri Lanka Frogmouth
Common NameSri Lanka Frogmouth
Scientific NameBatrachostomus moniliger
FamilyPodargidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)24
Weight (g)55
Plumage DetailsMales are generally greyish-brown, heavily mottled and streaked with black and white, mimicking tree bark. Females often exhibit a rufous or reddish-brown morph, as seen in the image, with similar cryptic patterns. Both sexes possess a broad, flattened bill and prominent bristles around the gape.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a soft, low, mournful 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'gok-gok-gok' call, often repeated, which can carry through the forest at night.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to the Western Ghats of southern India and the island of Sri Lanka, inhabiting dense tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests.
Identifying FeaturesExceptional cryptic camouflage, Large, broad head and flattened bill with prominent bristles, Nocturnal behavior, Often perches vertically, resembling a broken branch, Sexual dimorphism with greyish males and rufous females
Description
The Sri Lanka Frogmouth is a nocturnal bird renowned for its exceptional camouflage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with tree bark or dead leaves during its daytime roost. It typically perches motionless, often with its head tilted upwards, making it incredibly difficult to spot.
