About the Large-tailed Nightjar
The large-tailed nightjar is a species of nightjar known for its distinctive long, broad tail and cryptic plumage that allows it to blend into its surroundings. Found along the southern Himalayan foothills, eastern South Asia, Southeast Asia and northern Australia, its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical mangrove forest, and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
The large-tailed nightjar measures approximately 31.5 to 33 cm in length. The cryptic plumage and colouration of large-tailed nightjars provide effective camouflage within its natural habitat. Males exhibit distinctive markings, characterized by a pale crown with a dark median stripe. A prominent row of black scapular feathers, bordered by broad buff or whitish-buff fringes, enhances their striking appearance. Additionally, males possess a white throat patch and along, broad brown tail marked with uneven dark bars. Voice: Songs can be heard year-round, but vocal activity may vary depending on breeding activity, population density, and moon phase. The large-tailed nightjar has a distinctive, monotonous song that it uses to assert its territory. Territorial songs are typically given by males, but there are also reports of females giving these songs.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
What the Large-tailed Nightjar sounds like
Where it lives
When to see it
Peak activity in March · a resident species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Indian NightjarCaprimulgus asiaticusThis nightjar is small and short-tailed with white corners to the tail, a golden nape and collar, dark cheeks and white patches on the sides of the throat.
Jerdon's NightjarCaprimulgus atripennisLike other nightjars, it has a wide gape, long wings, soft downy plumage and nocturnal habits.
Red-necked NightjarCaprimulgus ruficollisThe variegated plumage resembles the European nightjar.
Learn the Large-tailed Nightjar for real
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