Band-winged Nightjar
NameBand-winged Nightjar
Common NameBand-winged Nightjar
Scientific NameCaprimulgus longirostris
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)42
Length (cm)23
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is a complex pattern of mottled browns, greys, blacks, and buff, creating excellent camouflage against leaf litter or rocky ground. Males often display prominent white bands on their primary flight feathers, which are visible in flight or when the wings are spread.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of a repeated, often accelerating, trilling or churring call, which can vary in pitch and rhythm depending on the subspecies and context.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread in South America, found from Colombia and Venezuela south through the Andes to Argentina and Chile.
Identifying Featurescryptic plumage, nocturnal activity, large eyes, wide gape, white wing bands (males), distinctive trilling call
Description
This nocturnal bird is expertly camouflaged with its mottled brown, black, and buff plumage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings during the day. It typically rests on the ground or low branches, becoming active at dusk to hunt insects in flight.
