Common Potoo (Nyctibius griseus)

Identification & Behavior: ~38 cm (15 in). The Common Potoo has gray and rufous-brown color morphs. The plumage shows an intricate pattern of fine streaks and spotting. The underparts show spot bands across the breast. It is similar to the Long-tailed Potoo, but is distinguished by the lack of white patch on the shoulders, smaller size, tail as long as the tip of the wings, and use of forest edges and semi-open habitats. Also, see Great Potoo.

Status: The Common Potto is fairly common and widespread in Amazonia where it is known to range up to 2000 m along the foothill of the Andes. It is also rare in the semideciduous forest of Northwest Peru. The Common Potoo also occurs in Co, Ec, Br, and Bo.

Name in Spanish: Nictibio Común.

Sub-species: Common Potoo (Nyctibius griseus panamensis) Ridgway, 1912.
(Nyctibius griseus griseus), J. F. Gmelin 1789.

Meaning of Name: Nyctibius: Gr. Nuktos: night and bioō: to live. griseus: L griseus= gray..

See more of the Family Nyctibiidae