Freckled Nightjar
Caprimulgus tristigma
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<birdfyi-bird slug="caprimulgus-tristigma"></birdfyi-bird>The Freckled Nightjar (Caprimulgus tristigma) is a bird species in the family Caprimulgidae (nightjars), within the order Caprimulgiformes (nightjars & swifts). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 34.4 cm and a weight of 79.9 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Least Concern.
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About
A medium-sized nightjar (25-28 cm) found on rocky outcrops and boulder-strewn hillsides across sub-Saharan Africa. Distinctively speckled grey and brown plumage resembling lichen-covered rock. Crepuscular and nocturnal insectivore. Resident, with one of the most camouflaged plumages among nightjars.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 34.4 cm | 13.5 in |
| Weight | 79.88333333333334 g | 2.82 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Heavily freckled dark grey and black upperparts resembling granite surfaces; whitish throat patch; underparts densely barred dark and pale; uniquely dark stone-coloured cryptic plumage adapted to rocky outcrops in Africa.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: NO. Incubation: 17-19 days. Fledging: 20 days.
Clutch Size
2
Sound
Song
Loud, dog-like 'bow-wow' or 'woof-woof'; unusual barking call for a nightjar; carries across rocky African outcrops; alarm a sharp 'chek'; distinctive among all nightjars
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes (Nightjars & Swifts) |
| Family | Caprimulgidae (Nightjars) |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | Caprimulgus tristigma |
Distribution
Freckled Nightjar has been recorded in 1 countries.
countries highlighted
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Freckled Nightjar endangered?
How does the Freckled Nightjar nest?
What does the Freckled Nightjar sound like?
How big is the Freckled Nightjar?
What order and family does the Freckled Nightjar belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Caprimulgidae family