Aegotheles tatei
The Starry Owlet-nightjar (*Aegotheles tatei*) is a small, enigmatic nocturnal bird endemic to the montane forests of southeastern New Guinea. Measuring approximately 20-23 cm in length, it boasts an incredibly cryptic plumage of dark brown, finely vermiculated with rufous and buff, and heavily speckled with small white and buff spots that give it its distinctive 'starry' appearance. Its undersides are paler and often finely barred. Key field marks include its small size, large forward-facing...
This species primarily inhabits tropical moist montane forests, including cloud forests, at elevations typically ranging from 800 to 2800 meters above sea level.
Its diet consists almost exclusively of insects, predominantly moths and beetles, which it captures during nocturnal flights.
The Starry Owlet-nightjar is strictly nocturnal, spending its days roosting cryptically in tree hollows, dense foliage, or camouflaged against tree bark, often in a vertical posture. Its foraging strategy involves sallying forth from a perch to catch flying insects in mid-air, a technique charact...
The Starry Owlet-nightjar is an obligate resident of the montane forests of southeastern New Guinea, displaying no migratory movements. Its breeding and year-round distribution is restricted to the highlands of Papua New Guinea, primarily concentrated within the Owen Stanley Range and other south...
Least Concern
- The Starry Owlet-nightjar is one of the smallest nocturnal birds in New Guinea, often mistaken for a small owl or true nightjar. - Its 'starry' name comes from the intricate pattern of small white and buff spots adorning its dark plumage, offering superb camouflage. - This species is so elusive...