The Solomons frogmouth, also known as the Cinnamon frogmouth or Solomon Islands frogmouth, is a bird in the frogmouth family. It was first described in 1901, but not recognized as a distinct species until 2007. The Solomons frogmouth is the only known member of the genus Rigidipenna. It is also endemic to the islands of Isabel, Bougainville and Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands archipelago, in the countries of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.
Region
Solomon Islands archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs on forested islands including Isabel and Guadalcanal (Solomon Islands) and Bougainville (Papua New Guinea). It favors primary and mature secondary lowland and hill forests, often near clearings, streams, and forest edges. The species roosts quietly in dense foliage by day and uses shaded perches at night to sally for prey. It tolerates some habitat disturbance but is most frequent in intact forest. Nesting sites are typically in trees on simple twig platforms.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Solomons frogmouth is the only member of the genus Rigidipenna and was recognized as a distinct species in 2007 after long being lumped with the marbled frogmouth. Its name reflects unusually stiff feather shafts and a warm cinnamon tone to the plumage. A nocturnal ambush hunter, it often mimics a broken branch by sitting motionless on a perch during the day.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, quiet glides
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Likely forms long-term pair bonds, as in other frogmouths. Nests are flimsy twig platforms placed on horizontal branches, with typically a single egg and shared parental care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers low, resonant hoots and frog-like croaks at night, often in short repeated series. Calls carry through forest understory and are used for territory advertisement and pair contact.
