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The Mountain owlet-nightjar is a species of bird in the family Aegothelidae. It is found in the highlands of New Guinea. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
Owlet-nightjars have wide beak bills, short legs, and upright posture. Their eyes are oriented forwards and are protected by an array of whisker-like feathers. The Mountain owlet-nightjar is a small darkish owlet-nightjar, measuring 18–22 cm in length with a wingspan of about 50 cm and a weight of 25-40g. Males and females are similar in size and plumage. Mountain owlet nightjars exhibits large amounts of plumage variability by individual. Color morphs found in a given population range from dark brown to reddish brown with many intermediate shades present. Voice: The call is described as two to four, but usually three, medium-pitched, slow, somewhat hoarse whistles. The notes are even in pitch or slightly downslurred, with each note a half-tone higher than the preceding. Vocalizations are likely related to displays of aggression (territoriality) or mating behaviours.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where it lives
When to see it
Peak activity in August · a winter visitor species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Feline Owlet-nightjarAegotheles insignisThe feline owlet-nightjar is the largest owlet-nightjar in New Guinea, having a length of 28-30 cm.
Barred Owlet-nightjarAegotheles bennettiiThe barred owlet-nightjar is a species of bird in the owlet-nightjar family Aegothelidae.
Moluccan Owlet-nightjarAegotheles crinifronsThe Moluccan owlet-nightjar, also known as the long-whiskered owlet-nightjar, is a species of bird in the family Aegothelidae.
Learn the Mountain Owlet-nightjar for real
BeakBrain drills you on photos and calls until you can greet this bird by name in the field. Free to play, on any device.
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