Standard-winged Nightjar
NameStandard-winged Nightjar
Common NameStandard-winged Nightjar
Scientific NameCaprimulgus longipennis
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is highly cryptic, featuring a mottled pattern of browns, greys, buffs, and blacks, allowing it to blend seamlessly with leaf litter and tree bark. It has large dark eyes and a small, wide bill fringed with rictal bristles. Males in breeding season develop two very long, bare primary shafts, each with a feather at the tip, extending far beyond the wing.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of a series of soft, whistling notes, often described as a 'twee-twee-twee' or a low, whirring sound, usually given at dusk or dawn.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, open woodland, grassland, scrubland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal east to Sudan and south to the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is a migratory species within its African range.
Identifying FeaturesCryptic mottled brown and grey plumage, Large dark eyes, Small, wide bill with rictal bristles, Nocturnal habits, Breeding males possess two extremely long, bare primary shafts with a feather at the tip (streamers)
Description
The Standard-winged Nightjar is a nocturnal bird known for its cryptic plumage, which provides excellent camouflage during the day. Males develop two extraordinarily long, bare primary shafts with a feather at the tip during the breeding season, a unique display feature. They are insectivorous, catching flying insects on the wing.
