Malaysian Eared Nightjar
NameMalaysian Eared Nightjar
Common NameMalaysian Eared Nightjar
Scientific NameLyncornis macrotis
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)35.5
Weight (g)125
Plumage DetailsCryptic mottled brown, black, and buff plumage with intricate patterns, providing excellent camouflage. It has a broad, flattened head, large eyes (often appearing red in flash photography), and distinctive long, pointed ear tufts that resemble horns.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a loud, clear, often repeated 'tock-tock-tock' or 'chiank-chiank-chiank' followed by a series of accelerating 'whup-whup-whup' notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Southeast Asia, including the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo, Palawan (Philippines), and parts of mainland Southeast Asia (Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia).
Identifying FeaturesProminent ear tufts, Large red eyes (when illuminated), Cryptic mottled plumage, Nocturnal activity, Broad, flattened head
Description
A large, nocturnal nightjar characterized by its prominent ear tufts and cryptic plumage, which provides excellent camouflage against tree bark. It is an aerial insectivore, active primarily at dusk and dawn, catching insects in flight.
