Philippine Frogmouth

Overview

The Philippine frogmouth (Batrachostomus septimus) is a nocturnal, medium-sized bird endemic to the Philippines. It is generally considered a species of Least Concern, although its population is believed to be slowly declining due to habitat destruction.

Identification

• Medium-sized bird measuring 24–26 cm, featuring cryptic plumage that allows for camouflage when perched during the day.
• Possesses large eyes for night vision, a large flat bill with elongated bristles at the base, and brown feet.
• Exhibits two colour morphs: a chestnut rufous or a lighter brown with buff and black barring, both marked by three distinct light buff or white bands on the hindneck, lower throat, and lower breast.
• Males produce low, deep woah, wash, or guam calls, while females emit a louder, descending mewl; both sexes use a harsh growling call and a staccato-like alarm scream.

Habitat

Found throughout the Philippine archipelago, though noticeably absent from Palawan. It inhabits lowland forests and maturing second-growth woodlands, rather than mature forests. As a sedentary species, it remains in its territory rather than migrating.

Diet

The bird feeds on large insects, including grasshoppers, cicadas, crickets, and beetles. It forages by perching on low branches and striking at insects as they move below.

Did you know?

The nest is constructed on a horizontal branch 2–5 metres above the ground and is uniquely built using the parent's own downy feathers held in place by spider silk, moss, and lichens.