Eurasian Nightjar

2 weeks ago door Henk Spuijbroek

Points: 60

Spotted

A medium-sized, nocturnal bird known for its superb camouflage, silent flight, and distinctive churring song. It is a crepuscular hunter of insects.

Where to spot

Open woodlands, heathlands, clearings, and scrubland across Europe and temperate Asia, migrating to Africa for winter.

How to spot

Listen for the male's continuous, mechanical 'churring' song, especially on warm evenings. They are masters of camouflage, making them extremely difficult to spot even when roosting during the day. Look for their distinctive silhouette against the sky at twilight.

When to spot

Dusk and dawn during the breeding season (spring/summer). They are strictly nocturnal and most active at these times.

Where to spot

Open woodlands, heathlands, clearings, and scrubland across Europe and temperate Asia, migrating to Africa for winter.

How to spot

When to spot

Dusk and dawn during the breeding season (spring/summer). They are strictly nocturnal and most active at these times.

Credits: PimGMX

Credits: Frank.Vassen

Credits: belgianchocolate

Nightjars possess unique 'rictal bristles' around their wide mouth, which are stiff feathers that help them funnel insects into their gape while flying at high speed in pursuit of prey.

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