Northern Potoo

Overview

The northern potoo (Nyctibius jamaicensis) is a nocturnal bird in the family Nyctibiidae that was formerly considered a subspecies of the common potoo. It is distinguished from its close relative primarily by its vocalizations rather than its physical appearance.

Identification

• A fairly large bird measuring 38–46 cm in length, featuring a long tail, long pointed wings, and a large head.
• Plumage is grey-brown with intricate black, grey, and cream markings; pale cheeks are marked by a dark stripe below them.
• Possesses very short legs, a small bill with a large gape, and large eyes with yellow irises that shine red in night light.
• Produces hoarse and guttural calls, including a 'rough, squalling kwaaah' song, an abrupt 'rrah!', and a barking alarm call.

Habitat

Found from Mexico south to Costa Rica, as well as on the islands of Jamaica and Hispaniola. It primarily inhabits lowland woodland, scrubland, and farmland with scattered trees, though it is occasionally seen in urban areas and golf courses. It is a permanent resident in these ranges, with occasional reports of it visiting Puerto Rico.

Diet

The bird feeds on large insects, such as moths and beetles. It forages by hunting from a perch, sitting motionless and waiting for prey before sallying out to catch it in flight.

Did you know?

The Mopan people believe that if a northern potoo flies over a house repeatedly at night, someone in the family will die, prompting them to chase the bird away with lighted sticks.