The sighting of Sri Lankan Frogmouth, a rare bird species, in the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary has sparked much interest among ornithologists since its presence was noticed on the eastern side of the Western Ghats for the first time.
Sri Lankan Frogmouth:
The Sri Lankan Frogmouth belongs to the Batrachostomus moniliger species.
It is a relative of Nightjar, a crepuscular and nocturnal bird breeding in Europe and temperate Asia. The bird, like the Nightjar, eats insects and mainly seeks prey during night time.
Distribution:
The bird has a unique habitat in Sri Lanka and is also believed to be present in the Thattekad bird sanctuary (Kerala). It is also found in Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra.
It is usually found on the western side of the Western Ghats. However, its spotting in the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is the first instance of being found on the eastern side of the Western Ghats.
Habitat: Its preferred habitat is a dry and open area with some small trees or bushes. It usually rests on small tree branches during daytime.
IUCN Status: Least Concern.
Distinguishing features:
It lays only one egg a year after the mating season in April-May.
The bird roosts quietly on branches, making it difficult to see.
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