Golden Nightjar
NameGolden Nightjar
Common NameGolden Nightjar
Scientific NameCaprimulgus eximius
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)48
Length (cm)24
Weight (g)58
Plumage DetailsIts plumage is predominantly golden-buff to sandy-brown, heavily mottled and streaked with dark brown and black, providing excellent camouflage. It features a distinctive pale buff or whitish collar on the hindneck. Males may display white spots on the primaries and outer tail feathers.
Vocalization / CallThe call is typically a soft, purring or churring sound, often repeated, characteristic of many nightjar species.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Sahel region of Africa, from Mauritania and Senegal east through Mali, Niger, Chad, and Sudan to South Sudan.
Identifying Featurescryptic golden-brown plumage, pale hindneck collar, nocturnal activity, distinctive churring call, large eyes, short bill with wide gape
Description
The Golden Nightjar is a medium-sized nocturnal bird known for its superb camouflage, blending seamlessly with dry, sandy environments. It is primarily active at dusk and dawn, catching insects in flight with its wide gape.
