Potoos (Nyctibius spp.) are nocturnal birds native to Central and South America, known for their excellent camouflage among tree branches. They exhibit cryptic plumage that blends seamlessly with their environment. These solitary creatures have large, expressive eyes adapted for night vision and are insectivorous, primarily feeding on large flying insects. Their haunting calls resonate through the night, adding to their mysterious allure.

The Nyctibius genus, commonly known as potoos, is native to Central and South America. The distribution of each species is as follows: Nyctibius bracteatus (Rufous Potoo) is found in the Amazon Basin, Nyctibius grandis (Great Potoo) ranges from southern Mexico through Central America to northern South America, Nyctibius aethereus (Long-tailed Potoo) inhabits the Amazon Basin and eastern Brazil, Nyctibius leucopterus (White-winged Potoo) is distributed in the Amazon Basin and the Guianas, Nyctibius maculosus (Andean Potoo) is found in the Andes from Colombia to Bolivia, Nyctibius griseus (Common Potoo) ranges from southern Mexico to northern Argentina, and Nyctibius jamaicensis (Northern Potoo) is found in Jamaica, Hispaniola, and the Cayman Islands.

Potoos inhabit tropical and subtropical forests, including rainforests, both lowland and montane regions. They prefer areas with dense foliage and tall trees which provide ample camouflage and perching sites.

Potoos are nocturnal and highly camouflaged birds, primarily inhabiting forested areas where they can blend into the bark of trees during the day. They are insectivorous, feeding on a variety of nocturnal insects, and are known for their distinctive calls at night. The species show little variation in ecological niche, although some, like the Andean potoo, are adapted to higher elevations.