Starry Owlet-nightjar (Aegotheles tatei)

The Starry Owlet-nightjar bird, also known as the Starry Nightjar, is a small bird species that can be found in South and Southeast Asia. It is one of the smallest nightjars, measuring only seven inches in length. The bird is easily recognized by the delicate star-like spots on its feathers, which give it its distinctive appearance.

The Starry Owlet-nightjar bird is primarily a nocturnal bird, meaning it is active during the night and sleeps during the day. It roams around at night seeking for food, and this bird species survives on a diet that includes insects like moths, beetles, grasshoppers, and more. As the bird is tiny, it typically hunts small prey.

The Starry Owlet-nightjar bird usually makes its home in dense forests, woodlands, and even plantations. The bird has a unique way of nesting as it does not make an actual nest; rather, it lays its eggs directly on the ground. The bird uses its fine feathers to camouflage its eggs and protect them from predators.

The male Starry Owlet-nightjar bird shows its strength by singing and making a calling sound during the mating season. Its call is often compared to a human whistle, but it is more of a complex chattering, which it makes while perched. The males can whistle all night long, and their calls travel long distances. Meanwhile, females of the species are known to be silent.

The Starry Owlet-nightjar bird is usually an elusive bird, but birdwatchers have caught glimpses of this beautiful species. It is usually active during the breeding season, which lasts from March to August, making it easier to spot. Despite its delicate features, this bird is incredibly resilient and can thrive in a variety of habitats, from jungles to plantations. It is truly a remarkable bird, and its unique appearance and behavior make it an exciting bird species to observe.




Other names

Aegotheles tatei

Aegothelidae

AEGOTHELIFORMES

Starry Owlet-nightjar

egotel de Tate

星斑裸鼻夜鹰

亮麗裸鼻鴟

smeđa sovašica

lelčík nížinný

Floduglesvale

Laaglanddwergnachtzwaluw

pikkusinettikehrääjä

Égothèle de Tate

Tiefland-Höhlenschwalm

Egotele picchiettato

ホシズクヨタカ

dryžauodegis pelėdinis varliažiotis

prikkuglesvale

sownik pręgosterny

egotelo-estrelado

Звездный совиный лягушкорот

lelčík hviezdičkatý

Egotelo de Rand

stjärnuggleskärra

Yıldızlı Egotel

татеї

jõgi-õõnesorr

síksági kuvikfecske