About the Starry Owlet-nightjar
The starry owlet-nightjar, also known as the spangled owlet-nightjar, is a small to medium-sized, secretive nocturnal bird species found in the lowland forests of New Guinea. Like other owlet-nightjars in the family Aegothelidae, it has a distinctive appearance that falls between an owl and a nightjar. The species is very poorly known, recorded only from a few specimens and sightings. Due to its elusive nature, little is known about its life history, especially breeding behaviours and diet. Further study could reveal more about the species and inform future conservation and management efforts.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
The starry owlet-nightjar is a nocturnal bird measuring about 25 to 30 cm in length. It has a slender build, a bright rufous (reddish-brown) plumage, and a short tail with white dorsal bars. The species is known for its upright perching posture, usually seen resting or roosting quietly in the midstory of tall lowland forests. Its large forward-facing eyes and facial disk give it an owl-like appearance, and they are protected by a fringe of short, whisker-like feathers. Its beak is short and wide, adapted for catching insects in flight, and its legs are short and feathered. Voice: The starry owlet-nightjar has a call similar to the feline owlet-nightjar but is slightly higher in pitch. Its main song is a rough, three to four note series, often described as "gew! gok-gak!" with the first notes lower and the last two close together in tone. Its song consists of four short "whor" notes in sequence. It also involves a sharp, medium-pitched "peh!
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where it lives
When to see it
Peak activity in September · a winter visitor species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Wallace's Owlet-nightjarAegotheles wallaciiWallace's owlet-nightjar is a species of bird in the 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 Starry Owlet-nightjar for real
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