Tawny Frogmouth

Did you know?

The leading edges of the first primary (wing) feathers of the Tawny Frogmouth are fringed to allow for silent flight.

Facts and Figures
Research Species: 
Minimum Size: 
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Breeding season: 
August to December
Clutch Size: 
Two to three.
Conservation Status
Basic Information
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What does it look like?


Similar species: 

In Australia there are two other species of frogmouth. The Papuan Frogmouth,P. papuensis, is confined to the Cape York Peninsula and is larger, with an orange-red eye. The other species is the Marbled Frogmouth, P. ocellatus, which is similar in size to the Tawny Frogmouth, but is found only in the rainforests of far north Queensland and on the Queensland-New South Wales border, and it has an orange-yellow eye. Both species also occur in New Guinea. With their nocturnal habit and owl-like appearance, Tawny Frogmouths are often confused with owls, but are actually more closely related to the nightjars. Their feet are weak however, and lack the curved talons of owls.

Where does it live?

The Tawny Frogmouth is found throughout Australia, including Tasmania.


The Tawny Frogmouth can be seen in almost any habitat type except the denser rainforests and treeless deserts.

What does it do?




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