Savanna Nightjar
Caprimulgus affinis
The Savanna Nightjar (Caprimulgus affinis) is a uncommon nightjars and nighthawk found in 19 countries, weighing about 59 g. The savanna nightjar, also known as allied nightjar or Franklin's nightjar, is a species of nightjar found in South and Southeast Asia.
About the Savanna Nightjar
The savanna nightjar, also known as allied nightjar or Franklin's nightjar, is a species of nightjar found in South and Southeast Asia. The IUCN Red List has assessed the species to be of least concern because it has a large range and its population trend is stable. As other nightjars, this nocturnal bird is characterised by its large eyes, gaping mouth and excellent camouflage. It can be distinguished from similar south Asian nightjar species, like the chirruping nightjar, by its unique vocalisations.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
How to identify it
The savanna nightjar measures 20-26cm in length, has a body weight of 54-110g, and a wingspan of 64cm, with size varying by subspecies, ranging from small to medium-large. Like other nightjars, they have long pointed wings and small legs and feet, indicating their reliance on flight over walking. The bill is wide, revealing a large gape when opened, and is surrounded by facial feathers, called rictal bristles. Their vermiculated grey-brown plumage, characteristic of all nightjars, makes them difficult to tell apart from other species based on sight alone. Voice: Savanna nightjars begin vocalisation during early dusk and can be heard throughout the night until dawn, becoming especially vocal during breeding. The characteristic "chwip" call is used for both marking territory and attracting females during breeding season. Females vocalise less, emitting soft squeaks during brooding.
What the Savanna Nightjar sounds like
Where it lives
When to see it
Best months: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, with peak activity in March. It is a variable species across most of its range.
Easily confused with
Quick questions
- How do you identify a Savanna Nightjar?
- The savanna nightjar measures 20-26cm in length, has a body weight of 54-110g, and a wingspan of 64cm, with size varying by subspecies, ranging from small to medium-large. Full identification notes are on this page.
- How big is a Savanna Nightjar?
- The Savanna Nightjar is a small sized bird weighing about 59 g.
- Where can you see a Savanna Nightjar?
- The Savanna Nightjar occurs in 19 countries, including Taiwan, India, Indonesia, Singapore and Hong Kong SAR China.
- What does a Savanna Nightjar sound like?
- You can listen to 2 field recordings of the Savanna Nightjar on this page, contributed to xeno-canto under open licences.
- What birds look similar to a Savanna Nightjar?
- The Savanna Nightjar is most easily confused with the Fiery-necked Nightjar, the Large-tailed Nightjar and the Indian Nightjar.
Learn the Savanna Nightjar for real
BeakBrain drills you on photos and calls until you can greet this bird by name in the field. Free to play, on any device.
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