Britannica Sources used in this answer

Why might owlet-frogmouths have a limited distribution?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Male common nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus) landing — Caprimulgiform Male common nightjar (*Caprimulgus europaeus*) landing

The limited distribution of owlet-frogmouths is likely linked to their specific nesting requirements. Unlike some other members of the order Caprimulgiformes, owlet-frogmouths are hole-nesters.12

This nesting habit forces them to compete for suitable sites not only with owls—which are their primary competitors for food—but also with numerous diurnal bird species. This intense competition for limited nesting locations is considered a significant factor in why they are apparently the least successful family within the order, contributing to their restricted range and low population numbers.2