The ocellated poorwill is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Paraguay, and Peru.
Region
Central America and Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs from Honduras and Nicaragua through Costa Rica and Panama into northern South America, including Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and northern Argentina. Favors lowland and foothill tropical forests, both terra firme and seasonally flooded varzea. Common along forest edges, clearings, river corridors, and secondary growth. Roosts on the ground or low perches in dense understory by day and feeds in semi-open spaces by night.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A strictly nocturnal nightjar, the ocellated poorwill is expertly camouflaged, often resembling leaf litter when roosting on the forest floor. Its name refers to the small eye-like spots (ocelli) on its plumage. It often forages along forest edges and tracks at dusk and may sit motionless on roads at night, flushing only at close range.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with buoyant, low sallies
Social Behavior
Typically encountered alone or in pairs. Nests on the ground without a constructed nest, laying eggs directly on leaf litter. Pairs rely on camouflage and distraction displays to protect eggs and chicks. Males may display with songs and short chases at dusk.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, repetitive series of mellow whistles and trills delivered from a low perch or the ground at dusk and night. Phrases are spaced, slightly rising and falling, and can carry through closed-canopy forest.
