Madagascar Nightjar
Caprimulgus madagascariensis
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About
A medium-sized nightjar (23-25 cm) endemic to Madagascar. Brown plumage with cryptic patterning for camouflage on the forest floor. Found in a variety of habitats from dry deciduous to humid rainforest. Nocturnal insectivore, feeding on moths and beetles in forest openings.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 30.4 cm | 12.0 in |
| Weight | 42.333333333333336 g | 1.49 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Brown upperparts intricately patterned with black streaks and pale tawny freckles; buff-white throat band; underparts finely barred buff and dark brown; island endemic with slightly warmer coloration than continental African species.
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Found across sub-Saharan Africa from Senegal east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa. Resident in swampy grassland and wetland margins.
Diet & Feeding
Crepuscular and nocturnal moth specialist; supplements diet with beetles and flying termites over open woodland.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: NO.
Clutch Size
2
Sound
Song
Churring call from Madagascar scrub; rhythmic 'trrr-trrr' at moderate tempo; endemic; calls at dusk and dawn from open woodland and hedgerows; alarm a sharp click
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes (Nightjars & Swifts) |
| Family | Caprimulgidae (Nightjars) |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | Caprimulgus madagascariensis |
Distribution
Madagascar Nightjar has been recorded in 1 countries.
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External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Madagascar Nightjar eat?
Where does the Madagascar Nightjar live?
Is the Madagascar Nightjar endangered?
How does the Madagascar Nightjar nest?
What does the Madagascar Nightjar sound like?
How big is the Madagascar Nightjar?
What order and family does the Madagascar Nightjar belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Caprimulgidae family