Potoos (family Nyctibiidae) are a group of birds related to the nightjars and frogmouths. They are sometimes called poor-me-ones, after their haunting calls. The family Nyctibiidae was formerly included with the nightjars in the order Caprimulgiformes but is now placed in …

Much like owls, this species is nocturnal. It preys on large insects and small vertebrates, which it captures in sallies from high perches. Possibly its most well-known characteristic is its unique moaning growl that the great potoo vocalizes throughout the night, creating an unsettling atmosphere in the Neotropics with its nocturnal sounds. [2]

Potoos are insectivorous, nocturnal and related to nightjars and frogmouths. They can be found in every central and south American country, on Caribbean islands and have the greatest diversity in the Amazon, which holds five of the seven species.

The common potoo, or poor-me-ones (Nyctibius griseus), or urutau is one of seven species of birds within the genus Nyctibius. It is notable for its large, yellow eyes and a wide mouth.

potoo, (genus Nyctibius), any of seven species of solitary, nocturnal birds of the American tropics. Its name imitates the wailing cry, “po-TOO,” made by some species. The potoos’ complex patterns of gray, black, and brown plumage resemble tree bark.

Oct 28, 2021 · This is a potoo, a bird that one ornithologist famously described as “little more than a flying mouth and eyes.” Despite looking like they just stepped out of the Muppets, potoos are …

Aug 23, 2023 · The Great Potoo (Nyctibius grandis), also known as the ghost bird, is a distinctive species found in Central and South America. The species is known for its cryptic plumage, …

May 27, 2024 · The great potoo bird has a large head, giant, round eyes, elliptical-shaped wings, large, gaping mouths, and an elongated tail. They weigh between 13 and 23 ounces and grow from 19 to 24 inches with a 28-inch wingspan.

Nov 8, 2017 · Potoo birds have camouflage feathers that make them look just like a tree branch, but these unique South American birds can't help but stand out.

The Common Potoo is a medium-sized nocturnal bird with cryptic plumage. Its mottled grey-brown colouration, complete with darker streaks and spots, provides excellent camouflage against tree bark.