About the Slender-tailed Nightjar
The slender-tailed nightjar is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae. It is found in parts of eastern and central Africa, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
The slender-tailed nightjar is a medium-sized nightjar, measuring approximately 25–28 cm in length. It has cryptically patterned brown, grey, and black plumage, providing effective camouflage against dry ground and leaf litter. The head is relatively large and flattened, with a small bill and a very wide gape adapted for catching insects in flight. The tail is long and tapered, with the central feathers extending beyond the others, giving rise to the species’ common name. Sexes are similar in appearance, though males may show slightly more prominent pale patches on the wings.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where the Slender-tailed Nightjar lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in Somalia.
When to see the Slender-tailed Nightjar
Peak activity in November · a resident species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Long-tailed NightjarCaprimulgus climacurusThe long-tailed nightjar ranges from about 29–43 cm in size and is sexually dimorphic.
Madagascar NightjarCaprimulgus madagascariensisThe Madagascar nightjar or Madagascan nightjar is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae.
Egyptian NightjarCaprimulgus aegyptiusThe variegated plumage is much paler than the European nightjar.
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