Batrachostomus poliolophus
The Sumatran Frogmouth, Batrachostomus poliolophus, is a fascinating nocturnal bird endemic to the island of Sumatra, renowned for its unparalleled camouflage. Measuring approximately 23-27 cm in length and weighing 50-80 grams, this small frogmouth exhibits a cryptic plumage of mottled grey-browns, rufous, black, and white patterns, allowing it to blend seamlessly with tree bark and broken branches. Key field marks include a broad, flattened bill adorned with prominent bristles, a distinctiv...
This elusive frogmouth inhabits primary and mature secondary lowland and montane rainforests, favoring dense understory and often found near water sources. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 200 to 1,500 meters.
The Sumatran Frogmouth primarily feeds on large nocturnal insects such as moths, beetles, crickets, and cicadas, which it catches in flight or gleans from foliage. It occasionally supplements its diet with other invertebrates or small vertebrates like frogs or lizards.
Sumatran Frogmouths are strictly nocturnal and crepuscular, spending their days roosting motionless on a broken branch or tree stump, relying entirely on their cryptic camouflage. Their primary foraging strategy involves a 'sit-and-wait' approach from a low perch, sallying out to snatch large noc...
The Sumatran Frogmouth is an island endemic, found exclusively on the island of Sumatra, Indonesia. Its distribution is somewhat patchy, concentrated primarily within the montane and submontane forests of the Barisan mountain range that forms the spine of the island. While records indicate presen...
Near Threatened
- The Sumatran Frogmouth's scientific name, 'poliolophus,' literally translates to 'grey-crested,' referencing its distinct head plumage. - It possesses one of the widest gapes relative to its body size among all birds, perfectly adapted for snatching flying insects. - This bird is a master of mi...