Animals from Brazil : Urutau
20-08-2024
The mãe-da-lua or urutau bird (Nyctibius griseus), also known as the ghost bird, is a fascinating nocturnal bird found all over Brazil. It takes its name from the Guaraní language, where "urutau" means "bird". This bird is often associated with legends and myths because of its strange appearance and particular cry.
Urutau is known for its ability to remain immobile for long periods of time, which allows it to blend perfectly into its environment. Its plumage is generally gray or brown, which allows it to camouflage itself during the day by resembling pieces of tree bark. This allows him to go unnoticed in the face of potential predators.
It is a nocturnal predator that feeds mainly on insects. He hunts by flying silently near his prey, before capturing it with his powerful beak. Urutau can also feed on small reptiles and frogs, thus contributing to the regulation of the population of insects and other small prey in the Brazilian ecosystem. In Brazilian culture, Urutau is often considered a symbol of wisdom and mystery. His strange appearance and nocturnal behavior earned him the nickname "ghost bird". In addition, this bird is a popular subject in wildlife photography because of its unique appearance.
To be sure to be able to see this magnificent bird, you have to visit the bird park in Iguaçu!
Photo : Alexandre Toda Faitarone via Wikimedia Commons