Sykes's Nightjar
Caprimulgus mahrattensis
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<birdfyi-bird slug="caprimulgus-mahrattensis"></birdfyi-bird>The Sykes's Nightjar (Caprimulgus mahrattensis) is a bird species in the family Caprimulgidae (nightjars), within the order Caprimulgiformes (nightjars & swifts). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 33.9 cm and a weight of 57 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Least Concern.
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About
A small, pale nightjar (23 cm) of arid and semi-arid regions from Iran through Pakistan to western India. Sandy-grey plumage blends with desert terrain. Nocturnal insectivore, feeding on moths and beetles while in buoyant flight. Resident and partial migrant.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 33.9 cm | 13.3 in |
| Weight | 57.0 g | 2.01 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Pale greyish-brown upperparts with intricate black-brown shaft streaks and pale buff freckling; whitish chin bar; underparts buff with sparse brown barring; resembles Egyptian but greyer overall.
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Found in Pakistan, northwestern India, and adjacent Iran and Afghanistan. Resident in dry scrub, rocky hillsides, and semi-desert plains.
Diet & Feeding
Crepuscular and nocturnal insectivore; forages by sight for moths and large flying beetles above humid forest floors.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: NO. Incubation: 17-18 days.
Clutch Size
2
Sound
Song
Churring trill with hollow 'chuck' interspersed; 'chuck-churr' pattern; calls from Pakistani desert scrub at night; calls during moonlit nights from sandy ground
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes (Nightjars & Swifts) |
| Family | Caprimulgidae (Nightjars) |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | Caprimulgus mahrattensis |
Distribution
Sykes's Nightjar has been recorded in 1 countries.
countries highlighted
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Sykes's Nightjar eat?
Where does the Sykes's Nightjar live?
Is the Sykes's Nightjar endangered?
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What does the Sykes's Nightjar sound like?
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What order and family does the Sykes's Nightjar belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Caprimulgidae family