Batrachostomus moniliger Blyth, 1849

Length

This bird species reaches 23 centimetres (9.1 in) in length.

Head and Bill Morphology

Like all frogmouths, it has a wide, hooked bill with slit-like nostrils, and a large head with forward-facing eyes that give it a wide field of binocular vision.

Wing Structure and Markings

Compared to other species in its genus, it has small wings; these wings are marked by wing coverts that end in black spots tipped with white.

Male Plumage

Males are gray-brown with fine barring and a spotted crown; some males are browner and more closely resemble females.

Female Plumage Base Coloration

Females are more rufous or chestnut brown.

Geographic Variation in Female Crown Markings

Female birds from India have very fine black speckles on the crown, while Sri Lankan females may lack this speckling or have it in reduced form.

Periocular Bristles

This bird also has short, stiff bristles in front of and surrounding its eyes.

Subspecies Roonwali Identification

The population in the Western Ghats, subspecies roonwali (named after Mithan Lal Roonwal), differs very slightly from the nominate form.

Roonwali Male Plumage Differences

Male roonwali have a brownish-grey wing mirror and yellowish spots on the undersides, while nominate males from Sri Lanka have grey or white spots in these areas.

Roonwali Female Plumage Differences

Female roonwali have a bright reddish-brown wing mirror and unspotted undersides to the wings.

Species Distribution Range

This species is found in the Western Ghats of southwest India and Sri Lanka.

Habitat Preferences

It inhabits tropical forest, typically with dense undergrowth, and can sometimes be found in more disturbed habitats including plantations.

Detection Difficulty Factors

Its presence is easily overlooked because of its nocturnal behaviour and effective camouflage.