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Nightjar

©David Tipling/2020VISION

Nightjar

The easiest way to find out if the nocturnal and well-camouflaged nightjar is about is to listen out for its distinctive 'churring' call at dusk. A summer visitor, it is most numerous in southern England.

Scientific name

Caprimulgus europaeus

When to see

April to September

Species information

Statistics

Length: 26-28cm
Wingspan: 60cm
Weight: 83g
Average lifespan: 4 years
Classified in the UK as Amber under the Birds of Conservation Concern 5: the Red List for Birds (2021). Priority Species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework.

About

Arriving here in April and May from its wintering grounds in Africa, the nightjar nests on the ground on heathland and in young conifer woods. It is nocturnal, feeding on moths, flies and beetles. Amazingly well camouflaged, the nightjar is most easily spotted at dusk when the males can be seen displaying to females, flying around them and wing-clapping. Their distinctive 'churring' call is often given from a prominent perch.

How to identify

The nightjar has cryptic, bark-like plumage that helps it hide among the undergrowth. Adults have flat heads, a small bill with a surprisingly large gape, and big eyes. Males have white patches towards the end of their wings and at the end of their tails.

Distribution

A summer visitor to England, Wales and southern Scotland.

Did you know?

Many birds have a series of whisker-like feathers (called rictal bristles) around their beak. In nightjars, the rictal bristles are particularly long and obvious. Scientists still aren't sure of the exact role of these bristles, but think they may play a sensory role that helps birds that are foraging in low light levels.