Behavior

As is typical of potoos, Common Potoo rests immobile by day. They perch on high, upward projecting limbs or stubs in the canopy, but occasionally lower or along the side of the trunk. Although usually seen in an upright posture, when it is not alarmed it perches vertically but shorter and stouter, with its bill directed forward rather than upward. The moment it suspects its being watched however, it elongates its body, compresses its plumage, and raises its head, all so gradually that no movement is perceptible. They may use the same day roost for months at a time (Skutch 1983).

Common Potoos forage at night, from open perches in the canopy. They perch upright and watch alertly with frequent head movements until a large insect is spotted. Insects are captured in the air in a sally, after which they often return to the same perch.

There are few published data on territorial defense, maintenance, or home range size for Common Potoo. Sick (1997) reported two active nests within 500 m of one another.

Little information. Common Potoo presumably is monogamous; both sexes are reported to incubate the egg and brood the nestling (Skutch 1970).

Common Potoo usually is solitary.

No reports of predation on Common Potoo?