The mountain owlet-nightjar is a species of bird in the family Aegothelidae. It is found in the highlands of New Guinea. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs across the mountainous spine of New Guinea, inhabiting moist montane and mossy forests, forest edges, and secondary growth. It favors dense understory, vine tangles, and bamboo thickets where it can roost by day and hunt by night. Natural tree cavities and epiphyte clumps are used as shelter and potential nest sites. It tolerates some habitat disturbance provided sufficient forest cover remains.
Altitude Range
1000–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A secretive, nocturnal member of the owlet-nightjar family, it is adapted to cool, wet montane forests of New Guinea. Its wide gape and rictal bristles help it snatch moths and beetles in dim light. It often roosts quietly in tree cavities or dense vegetation and is more often heard than seen. Because of its cryptic plumage and remote habitat, the species remains poorly studied.
Temperament
nocturnal and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, low-level sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs. Roosts by day in cavities, dense foliage, or among epiphytes. Nests in natural tree holes; clutch size is small, and both parents are thought to participate in care. Territorial calling peaks during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of soft, repeated whistles and trills delivered at night, often from concealed perches. Calls carry surprisingly well in montane forest and are the primary means of detection.
