Great Potoo
Nyctibius grandis
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<birdfyi-bird slug="nyctibius-grandis"></birdfyi-bird>The Great Potoo (Nyctibius grandis) is a bird species in the family Nyctibiidae (potoos), within the order Caprimulgiformes (nightjars & swifts). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 74.8 cm and a weight of 492 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Least Concern.
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À propos
The largest potoo (48-60 cm) with enormous eyes and a massive gape. Pale grey-brown plumage with bold streaks and vermiculations. Found in humid forests from Mexico to Brazil. Nocturnal insectivore with an extraordinary, deeply booming growling call. Perches upright on branches by day.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Envergure | 74,8 cm | 29.4 in |
| Poids | 492,0 g | 17.35 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Predominantly greyish-white with intricate black and brown vermiculations and streaks; underparts paler with fine dark freckling; large orange-yellow eyes; mimics broken branch when perched upright; largest potoo species.
Habitat & Range
Répartition géographique
Found from Mexico and Trinidad south through Central America and South America to Argentina. Resident in forest edge and woodland up to 1,500 m.
Diet & Feeding
Nocturnal insectivore and occasional small vertebrate predator; hunts from perch by sight, targeting large moths and beetles.
Statut de conservation
Comportement et reproduction
Nidification
Nest type: NO. Fledging: 55 days.
Taille de la couvée
1
Son
Chant
Loud, haunting 'BWAAAOW'; booming wail; very large bird produces deep, resonant, mournful cry; carries far through tropical forest at night; deeply unsettling sound
Taxonomie
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Ordre | Caprimulgiformes (Nightjars & Swifts) |
| Famille | Nyctibiidae (Potoos) |
| Genus | Nyctibius |
| Espèces | Nyctibius grandis |
Distribution
Great Potoo has been recorded in 4 countries.
countries highlighted
External Databases
Foire aux questions
What does the Great Potoo eat?
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What does the Great Potoo sound like?
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Similar Birds
Other species in the Nyctibiidae family