Tawny Frogmouth Master Of Disguise

Have you ever seen any frogmouth before? The tawny frogmouth (Podargus strigoides) are famous for their very effective camouflage. They're sure hard to spot While they camouflage themselves on tree or sometimes look like stone statues. It is a large-headed, stocky bird that is sometimes mistaken for an owl due to its nocturnal habits and similar coloring.

The tawny frogmouth, which perches low on tree branches throughout the day disguised as part of the tree, is one of the greatest instances of cryptic plumage and mimicry among Australian birds. Their silvery-grey plumage, which is patterned with white, black, and brown streaks and mottles, allows them to freeze into the shape of a broken tree branch and become nearly invisible in broad daylight. To emphasize the likeness, the tawny frogmouth frequently perches on a broken limb and thrusts its head upwards at an extreme angle with its very big, broad beak. Often, a couple sits together and points their heads skyward, only breaking cover if approached near to take flight or warn off predators. When attacked, adult tawny frogmouths give an alarm cry, instructing offspring to stay motionless and immobile, preserving the natural concealment offered by the plumage.