The large frogmouth is a species of bird in the family Podargidae. It is found in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, in subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest. Logging of its habitat poses a risk to its survival, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has listed it as a vulnerable species.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Sundaic lowlands of Brunei, Indonesia (Borneo and Sumatra), Malaysia (Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, Sarawak), and southern Thailand. Prefers primary and well-structured secondary lowland evergreen and swamp forests, including peat-swamp and dipterocarp forests. Often stays in dense understory or along shaded forest streams and edges. Roosts on horizontal branches where its plumage blends with bark and leaf litter.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The large frogmouth is a nocturnal, cryptically patterned bird that relies on superb camouflage, often perching lengthwise along branches to resemble broken wood. It hunts by sallying from low perches, snapping up large insects with its wide, frog-like gape. Habitat loss from logging and conversion of lowland forests is its main threat. It is seldom seen due to its secretive habits and quiet, low-frequency calls.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low through understory
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, roosting motionless during the day to avoid detection. Breeding pairs build a small, flimsy nest platform on a branch, often using down and plant fibers bound with saliva. Clutch is typically a single egg, with both parents involved in incubation and brooding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives low, booming hoots and soft, rhythmic notes delivered at night, often repeated at long intervals. The call can be ventriloquial and easily missed against background forest sounds.
