JI-PARANÁ, BRAZIL — A potoo, popularly known as the “ghost bird” or “mãe-da-lua,” was found injured this week in the municipality of Ji-Paraná, in the state of Rondônia, northern Brazil.

The bird was located near the city’s ring road and had to be rescued by the Fire Department. After the rescue, it was taken to the municipal veterinary clinic, where it remains under treatment.

Veterinarian Rosana Pereira, who is caring for the potoo, said the bird had an injury to one of its wings and that the team is working to prevent an infection. Once fully recovered, the animal is expected to be released back into its natural habitat.

The case drew attention from the rescue team due to the rarity of sightings of the species. Potoos are known for their “ghostly” call and near-perfect camouflage, which allows them to blend into tree trunks to avoid predators.

The bird is also surrounded by legends and superstitions that are believed to bring good or bad luck, depending on local popular beliefs.

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