Jerdon's Nightjar
NameJerdon's Nightjar
Common NameJerdon's Nightjar
Scientific NameCaprimulgus atripennis
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)50
Length (cm)25.5
Weight (g)66.5
Plumage DetailsPlumage is cryptically patterned with various shades of brown, rufous, black, and buff, providing excellent camouflage against leaf litter and bare ground. It features a prominent white patch on the side of the throat, more distinct in males, and males also show white patches on the primaries in flight.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a distinctive, rapid, and repeated 'chuck-chuck-chuck-chuck' or 'ch-woo-woo-woo' call, often described as a wooden rattle or a series of sharp clicks.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in peninsular India and Sri Lanka, inhabiting dry deciduous forests, scrub jungles, and plantations.
Identifying FeaturesCryptic brown and rufous plumage, Large dark eyes, Prominent rictal bristles around the bill, Distinctive white throat patch, Nocturnal and crepuscular activity, Unique 'chuck-chuck-chuck' call
Description
The Jerdon's Nightjar is a medium-sized nocturnal bird with cryptic plumage, perfectly camouflaged for resting on the ground during the day. It is an aerial insectivore, catching insects in flight during dusk and dawn.
