Oilbird

Oilbird
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Aves Order: Caprimulgiformes Family: Steatornithidae
Species Steatornis caripensis

The Oilbird, Steatornis caripensis, is a slim, long-winged bird related to the nightjars. It is found in the northern areas of South America.

This nocturnal species, uniquely, is a specialist feeder on the fruit of the oil-palm. All the nightjars and their other relatives are insectivores.

The Oilbird's feet are small and almost useless.

During the day these birds rest on cave ledges. The nest is a heap of droppings, on which 2-4 white eggs are laid.

The relationships with other species is as below:

Caprimulgiformes

• Family: Steatornithidae
  • Oilbird, Steatornis caripensis
• Family: Podargidae frogmouths
• Family: Nyctibiidae potoos
• Family: Aegothelidae owlet-nightjars
• Family: Caprimulgidae nightjars