Donaldson Smith's Nightjar
NameDonaldson Smith's Nightjar
Common NameDonaldson Smith's Nightjar
Scientific NameCaprimulgus donaldsoni
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)42
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is intricately mottled with various shades of brown, grey, rufous, and white, featuring dark streaks and spots that provide exceptional camouflage. The underparts are generally paler with fine barring. Males may exhibit small white patches on the wings and outer tail feathers, which are less prominent or absent in females.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a distinctive, high-pitched, whistling call, often described as a rapid 'twee-twee-twee' or 'chip-chip-chip' that is repeated continuously.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in East Africa, with its range extending from southeastern Ethiopia and Somalia south through Kenya to northeastern Tanzania.
Identifying Featurescryptic camouflage plumage, long rictal bristles around the mouth, large eyes, small size for a nightjar, distinctive whistling call
Description
This small, cryptically patterned nightjar is found in arid East African scrublands. It is primarily nocturnal, feeding on insects caught in flight, and rests perfectly camouflaged on the ground during the day, often appearing as part of the rocky or sandy substrate.
