Wallace’s Owlet-nightjar Bird Details
Aegotheles wallacii
Wallace’s Owlet-nightjar
NA
George Robert Gray, 1859
Caprimulgiformes (NIGHTJARS AND ALLIES)
Aegothelidae
Aegotheles
Papua New Guinea and Indonesia.
Appearance :
Wallace’s Owlet-nightjar is a small, nocturnal bird with a length of about 25 cm. It has a distinctive appearance characterized by large eyes, a wide, flat beak, and a cryptic plumage that blends into its environment. The coloration typically includes shades of brown, grey, and rufous, with intricate patterns that help in camouflage.
Behaviour :
This species is nocturnal, primarily active during the night. It is known for its secretive and elusive nature, making it difficult to observe in the wild. The bird’s behavior includes silent flight and perching motionlessly on tree branches during the day.
Habitat :
Wallace’s Owlet-nightjar inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, particularly dense and humid lowland rainforests. It prefers areas with thick understory and plenty of foliage cover.
Diet :
The diet of Wallace’s Owlet-nightjar mainly consists of insects and other small invertebrates. It hunts by sallying from a perch to catch prey in flight or by gleaning insects from foliage.
Conservation Status :
Least Concern
Distribution :
Wallace’s Owlet-nightjar is found in New Guinea and nearby islands. Its range includes the lowland rainforests of this region.
Population Size :
It is considered to be relatively uncommon due to its elusive nature.
Life Span :
Lifespans ranging from 5 to 10 years in the wild.
Body And Tarsus:
- Wallace’s Owlet-nightjar is a small, compact bird with a cryptic plumage that provides excellent camouflage.
- Tarsus Length: Around 1.835 to 1.85 cm
Head And Bill :
- Head: The head is large with prominent, forward-facing eyes.
- Bill: The bill is wide and flat, adapted for catching insects.
- Bill Length: round 1-2 cm.
Length :
Approximately 25 cm.
Neck :
The neck is short, contributing to the bird’s overall compact appearance.
Size :
Small-sized bird with a robust body.
Tail Details :
- Tail: The tail is moderately long and rounded, aiding in maneuverability during flight.
- Tail Length: Around 10 to 10.3 cm.
Weight :
Around 40-60 grams.
Wing :
The wings are long and pointed, allowing for agile and silent flight.
Wing Span :
Around 40-50 cm.
Facial Feature :
Prominent, forward-facing eyes for excellent night vision; a wide, flat bill adapted for catching insects.
Nest Details :
- Nest: Typically nests in tree cavities or crevices, often in well-hidden locations.
- Nest Made Up Of: Nests are generally simple and may not be lined with much material, relying on natural cavities.
Breeding Season :
Breeding is likely influenced by seasonal variations in food availability.
Nesting Season :
Nesting season is likely to coincide with periods of higher insect abundance.
Egg Color :
Eggs are typically white or off-white.
Egg Length :
Egg Width and Weight :
Clutch Size :
The clutch size is usually 1-2 eggs.
No. of Broods :
Generally, one brood per breeding season.
Incubation Period :
Around 3-4 weeks.
Nestling Period :
Approximately 3-4 weeks.
Vocalization :
Known for its soft, repetitive calls, which are often heard during the night.
Sex Demorphism :
Males and females look similar in size and plumage.
Migration Details :
Sedentary bird, with no significant migration patterns observed.
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