Tawny Frogmouth
Podargus strigoides
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<birdfyi-bird slug="podargus-strigoides"></birdfyi-bird>About
A large, stocky frogmouth (34-53 cm) endemic to Australia, widespread across the continent. Silvery-grey mottled plumage provides superb camouflage against tree bark. Nocturnal insectivore pouncing on prey from perches. Australia's most commonly encountered nocturnal bird.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 45.8 cm | 18.0 in |
| Weight | 430.0 g | 15.17 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Cryptic silver-grey upperparts with black shaft streaks; underparts paler grey with dark streaking; females often more rufous-tawny morph; vivid yellow eyes; heavy hooked bill; famous for bark-mimicking upright posture when disturbed.
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Found throughout Australia including Tasmania. Resident in woodland, forest edge, and suburban areas. Widespread and common across the continent.
Diet & Feeding
Nocturnal ground-gleaning insectivore; drops from a perch onto large insects, frogs, and small lizards below.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: PL. Incubation: 28-32 days. Fledging: 25-35 days.
Clutch Size
1-5
Sound
Song
Resonant, repeated 'oom-oom-oom'; low booming hoot; soft and melodious for such a large bird; calls at night from Australian eucalypt forest; alarm a harsh 'grr'
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes (Nightjars & Swifts) |
| Family | Podargidae (Frogmouths) |
| Genus | Podargus |
| Species | Podargus strigoides |
Distribution
Tawny Frogmouth has been recorded in 1 countries.
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External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Tawny Frogmouth eat?
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Is the Tawny Frogmouth endangered?
How does the Tawny Frogmouth nest?
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How big is the Tawny Frogmouth?
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Similar Birds
Other species in the Podargidae family