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TAWNY FROGMOUTH

(Podargus strigoides)

Tawny Frogmouths are not owls, they are Nightjars. Now that we have that out of the way:

Tawny Frogmouths are large, stocky birds native to Australia, measuring between 34 to 53 cm (13 to 21 inches) in length and weighing up to 680 grams. With their big heads, rounded wings, and short legs, they have distinctive heavy bills that are hooked at the tip and adorned with bristle-like tufts. Their eye-catching large yellow eyes resemble those of owls, although they are not positioned forward like an owl’s. Tawny Frogmouths exhibit three distinct color morphs, with grey being the most common; males have silver-grey upperparts with black streaks, while females tend to be darker with more rufous mottling. The average lifespan for wild Tawny Frogmouths is around 14 years, while those in captivity can live for over 30 years. Their unique adaptations and varied plumage make them fascinating inhabitants of their natural environment.