Ocellated Poorwill

Nyctiphrynus ocellatus (Tschudi, 1844)

Ocellated Poorwill Nyctiphrynus ocellatus is a nightjar of Middle America and South America, with a wide breeding range across the region. It occurs in forested lowlands and in dense secondary growth, and has been recorded from sea level up to 1,350 m. The nominate form is split between two South American areas, while N. o. lautus is found in eastern Honduras, northeastern Nicaragua and north-western Costa Rica. Its name comes from the eye-like white marks on the belly, and the species also shows a bold white throat band and white-tipped outer tail feathers.

Order

Caprimulgiformes

Family

Caprimulgidae — Nightjars

Breeding range

Middle America, South America: widespread