potoo

[ poh-too ]

noun

, plural po·toos.

1. any of several nocturnal birds of the family Nyctibiidae, of Mexico and Central and South America, related to the goatsuckers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of potoo¹

1840–50; originally Jamaican English patoo; compare Twi patú owl

Example Sentences

During the day, the potoo perches on tree branches, remaining perfectly still, with its cryptic plumage resembling a broken tree branch or stump.

From BBC

As I didn't want to risk disturbing the potoo into flight, I photographed it with a long telephoto lens.

From BBC

Apparently she has been called the ugliest bird in the world, a distinction that should really go to the potoo.

From Slate

A common potoo perches on a branch in Peru.

From National Geographic

Nyctibius griseus mexicanus Nelson: Mexican Potoo.—One specimen was taken at night 7½ km.

From Project Gutenberg