The Vogelkop owlet-nightjar or allied owlet-nightjar is a species of bird in the family Aegothelidae. It can be found in New Guinea. It is known from Bird's Head Peninsula and Eastern Highlands Province.
Region
New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs across New Guinea from the Vogelkop (Bird’s Head) in the west to the Central and Eastern Highlands, with records in both Indonesian Papua and Papua New Guinea. Inhabits lowland and hill forests, forest edges, secondary growth, and gardens with mature trees. Frequently uses tree cavities for roosting and nesting and hunts along edges and light gaps. Generally avoids open treeless habitats but tolerates a mosaic of woodland and scrub.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Vogelkop owlet-nightjar, also known as the allied owlet-nightjar, is a small, nocturnal insect-eater with whisker-like rictal bristles that help detect prey in the dark. It roosts by day in tree hollows or dense vegetation and becomes active at dusk. Its soft, ventriloquial calls can be hard to locate in the forest. The name “Vogelkop” refers to the Bird’s Head Peninsula of western New Guinea.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, twisting sallies
Social Behavior
Typically roosts singly or in pairs in tree hollows or dense foliage. Breeding pairs use cavities for nesting, laying a small clutch and tending young in concealment. Mostly crepuscular and nocturnal, remaining still and well camouflaged by day.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives soft whistles, trills, and churring notes, often repeated at intervals from a concealed perch. Calls carry well but are difficult to pinpoint, especially at dusk and night.
