The Scissor-tailed Nightjar is a striking species known for its exceptionally long, deeply forked tail, especially in males, which resembles a pair of open scissors. It is an elegant nocturnal hunter of open grasslands.
Where to spot
Inhabits open grasslands, savannas, and dry scrublands across central and eastern South America.
How to spot
Search open habitats for its distinctive silhouette in flight or perched on the ground. Listen for its unique, often frog-like or 'choop-choop' calls, which are very characteristic of the species.
When to spot
Most active during twilight and nighttime hours, when it emerges to forage for flying insects.
Where to spot
Inhabits open grasslands, savannas, and dry scrublands across central and eastern South America.
How to spot
Search open habitats for its distinctive silhouette in flight or perched on the ground. Listen for its unique, often frog-like or 'choop-choop' calls, which are very characteristic of the species.
When to spot
Most active during twilight and nighttime hours, when it emerges to forage for flying insects.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
The male's incredibly elongated outer tail feathers can be twice the length of its body, making it one of the most distinctive and easily identifiable nightjars.
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