Tawny Frogmouth

Tawny Frogmouth, Podargus strigoides

The Tawny Frogmouth is often confused for an owl, but truly belongs to the Caprimulgiformes order which includes nightjars, nighthawks, and potoos. A nocturnal insectivore, the tawny frogmouth can be found throughout most of Australia down through Tasmania. They live in almost any habitat with the exception of dense rainforests and treeless deserts. The common name frogmouth comes from their wide, frog-like mouth which is triangular and hooked. Although they average a length of 44 cm (17.3 in), like many of the smaller caprimulgiform birds, they do enter a shallow state of torpor in winter during the coldest part of the night. While quite abundant, the tawny frogmouth is often a victim of car accidents as it chases insects drawn to the beam of headlights.