Australian Owlet-nightjar

Aegotheles affinis

The Australian Owlet-nightjar (Aegotheles affinis) is a small, nocturnal bird native to Australia. It is known for its distinctive wide, dark eyes and cryptic plumage, which provides excellent camouflage against tree bark. These birds are insectivorous and hunt at night, using their sharp beaks to catch prey. They are often found in open woodlands and forests, where they roost in tree hollows during the day. The Australian Owlet-nightjar is a solitary species, and its haunting calls can be heard at night. Despite their small size, they are skilled hunters and play an important role in controlling insect populations in their habitat.

Habitat: Open woodlands and forests