Northern Potoo
Nyctibius jamaicensis
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<birdfyi-bird slug="nyctibius-jamaicensis"></birdfyi-bird>The Northern Potoo (Nyctibius jamaicensis) is a bird species in the family Nyctibiidae (potoos), within the order Caprimulgiformes (nightjars & swifts). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 58 cm and a weight of 260.4 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Least Concern.
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About
A medium-sized potoo (38-46 cm) found from Mexico through Central America and the Caribbean. Pale grey-brown plumage provides excellent camouflage against tree bark. Nocturnal insectivore with large eyes adapted for night vision. Known for its haunting, descending whistled song.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 58.0 cm | 22.8 in |
| Weight | 260.425 g | 9.19 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Grey-brown upperparts with complex black and buff vermiculations; underparts pale grey with dark brown streaks; large yellow eyes; smaller and paler than Common Potoo; some individuals show more tawny-brown tones.
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Found from Mexico and Jamaica through Central America. Resident in open woodland, forest edge, and semi-open habitats up to 1,500 m elevation.
Diet & Feeding
Nocturnal sit-and-wait predator; sallies from a fixed perch to capture large flying insects, especially moths and beetles, in open aerial pursuits.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: SC.
Clutch Size
1
Sound
Song
Loud, mournful 'waaah' or 'pow-wow'; descending wail from Caribbean forest; calls persistently at night from tall perch; similar to Common Potoo but slightly deeper
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes (Nightjars & Swifts) |
| Family | Nyctibiidae (Potoos) |
| Genus | Nyctibius |
| Species | Nyctibius jamaicensis |
Distribution
Northern Potoo has been recorded in 1 countries.
countries highlighted
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Northern Potoo eat?
Where does the Northern Potoo live?
Is the Northern Potoo endangered?
How does the Northern Potoo nest?
What does the Northern Potoo sound like?
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What order and family does the Northern Potoo belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Nyctibiidae family