Blackish Nightjar
NameBlackish Nightjar
Common NameBlackish Nightjar
Scientific NameNyctidromus nigrescens
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)42
Length (cm)20
Weight (g)40
Plumage DetailsOverall dark brown to blackish, heavily mottled and vermiculated with rufous, buff, and greyish-white patterns, creating excellent cryptic camouflage. Males may show small white spots on the primaries.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a soft, purring trill or a repeated 'chup-chup-chup' sound, often given at dusk or dawn.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in northern South America, including parts of Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.
Identifying FeaturesCryptic dark plumage, Nocturnal habits, Often perches lengthwise on branches, Relatively small size for a nightjar, Distinctive purring or 'chup' call
Description
The Blackish Nightjar is a medium-sized, nocturnal bird known for its superb camouflage. It rests motionless during the day, blending seamlessly with tree branches or the forest floor, and emerges at dusk to hunt flying insects.
