The Sumatran frogmouth, also known as the short-tailed frogmouth and the pale-faced frogmouth, is a nocturnal bird belonging to the family Podargidae. It is endemic to the island of Sumatra in Indonesia.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Endemic to the Indonesian island of Sumatra, it inhabits primary and mature secondary rainforest, especially dense understory and bamboo thickets. It frequents forest edges, ravines, and stream corridors where insect activity is high. The species roosts close to trunks or on horizontal branches, relying on mottled plumage to blend with bark. It may persist in selectively logged forests if sufficient cover remains, but prefers undisturbed, shaded habitats.
Altitude Range
unknown
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Sumatran frogmouth, also called the short-tailed or pale-faced frogmouth, is a nocturnal, cryptic bird of Sumatra’s forests. It typically perches lengthwise along branches and relies on superb camouflage and stillness to avoid detection. Like other frogmouths, it has a wide gape and prominent rictal bristles that help it snatch insects in the dark.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with silent, low glides
Social Behavior
Usually roosts singly or in pairs, aligning its body along branches to resemble a broken limb. Likely pairs monogamously during breeding, with both sexes participating in incubation. Nests are typically small pads or platforms on branches, where a single egg is laid.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft series of low, booming hoots delivered at night, often in repetitive sequences. Also gives quiet growls and gruff notes when agitated or during close contact.
