Tawny Frogmouth

Australian birds · nocturnal · masters of camouflage

Looks like an owl. The tawny frogmouth has a big head, large eyes, and drab gray and brown feathers that make it look super similar to an owl. But it is not an owl at all, even though many people think it is.

Hunts at night. Tawny frogmouths are nocturnal, which means they sleep during the day and hunt for insects and small creatures when the sun goes down. They perch quietly on branches waiting for prey to come near.

Master of hiding. This bird is a champion at camouflage and blends in perfectly with tree bark and branches. It sits so still and quiet that you might walk right past one without noticing it.

Lives in Australia. Tawny frogmouths are found all across mainland Australia and Tasmania. They live in forests, woodlands, and gardens wherever there are trees to roost in.

Has a huge mouth. The tawny frogmouth's name comes from its enormous wide mouth, which it uses to scoop up insects and small animals in the darkness. The mouth opens really wide to catch prey on the wing.