Pennant-winged Nightjar
NamePennant-winged Nightjar
Common NamePennant-winged Nightjar
Scientific NameCaprimulgus vexillarius
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)26
Weight (g)75
Plumage DetailsMales exhibit dark brown and grey cryptic plumage with streaks and spots, a white patch on the throat, and prominent white patches on the wings. During breeding, two extremely elongated primary feathers, mostly white with dark tips, extend up to 60 cm. Females and non-breeding males lack these pennants and have more subdued, mottled brown plumage.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a soft, whistling 'twee-twee-twee' or a series of rapid, high-pitched notes. It also produces a distinctive frog-like croaking call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeAn intra-African migrant, breeding in southern Africa (e.g., Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa) during the austral summer. It then migrates north to equatorial Africa (e.g., Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Nigeria) for the austral winter.
Identifying FeaturesExtremely long, white-tipped pennant feathers on breeding males, Cryptic mottled brown and grey plumage, Nocturnal activity, Large eyes and small bill, Distinctive buoyant flight
Description
This nocturnal bird is famous for the male's incredibly long, pennant-like primary feathers that extend far beyond its body during the breeding season. It possesses cryptic plumage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings during the day when it rests on the ground or branches.
