Sri Lanka Frogmouth
NameSri Lanka Frogmouth
Common NameSri Lanka Frogmouth
Scientific NameBatrachostomus moniliger
FamilyPodargidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)23
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsMales are generally greyish-brown, mottled with white, black, and buff, resembling lichen-covered bark. Females are typically more rufous or reddish-brown, with similar cryptic patterns. Both sexes have large yellow eyes and prominent facial bristles.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a soft, low, cooing 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or a frog-like croak, often given at dusk or dawn.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical moist lowland forest, montane forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Western Ghats of southwestern India and Sri Lanka.
Identifying Featurescryptic plumage resembling bark and moss, large, broad head, very wide gape (mouth opening), prominent bristles around the bill, large, forward-facing yellow eyes, nocturnal behavior
Description
The Sri Lanka Frogmouth is a nocturnal bird known for its superb camouflage, blending seamlessly with tree bark and moss. It has a large head, wide gape, and prominent bristles around its bill, which aid in catching insects in flight.
