Great potoo

The great potoo or grand potoo (Nyctibius grandis) is the largest potoo species and is widely distributed in Central and South America.

Much like owls, this species is nocturnal. It preys on large insects and small vertebrates, which it captures in sallies from high perches.

Possibly its most well-known characteristic is its unique moaning growl that the great potoo vocalizes throughout the night, creating an unsettling atmosphere in the Neotropics with its nocturnal sounds.

The great potoo has a large head in relation to its body. The eyes are also very large with dark brown irises rather than the yellow that many other potoo have and has a short but broad beak. Their wings are elliptical in shape, and their tail is elongated. The feather colors vary with white, gray, black, and burgundy. The tail colors match with that of the rest of the body with the exception of white bars that can be seen going across the tail laterally. (see references below)

Range in Mass: 360 to 650 g (13 to 23 oz)

Range in Length: 480 to 600 mm (19 to 24 in)

Range in wingspan: 700 to 804 mm (27.6 to 31.7 in)

Average Wingspan: 734.8 mm (28.93 in)