White-throated Nightjar
NameWhite-throated Nightjar
Common NameWhite-throated Nightjar
Scientific NameEurostopodus mystacalis
FamilyCaprimulgidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)125
Plumage DetailsIts plumage is cryptically mottled with shades of brown, grey, black, and rufous, creating an excellent camouflage pattern. A prominent white patch on the throat is a key identifying feature, and males may also display white patches on their wings.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a distinctive, often repeated 'chook-chook-chook' or 'co-co-co-co' call, which can sometimes accelerate into a trill. It also produces soft 'whirr' or 'quarr' sounds.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, heathland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in eastern and northern Australia, New Guinea, and some islands in the Solomon Sea. It is migratory in parts of its Australian range, moving north during winter.
Identifying FeaturesSuperb cryptic camouflage, Prominent white throat patch, Nocturnal habits, Large eyes, Roosts on ground or low branches during the day, Distinctive 'chook-chook-chook' call
Description
The White-throated Nightjar is a medium-sized, nocturnal bird renowned for its superb camouflage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with leaf litter and bark. It spends its days roosting motionless on the ground or low branches, becoming active at dusk to hunt flying insects.
