Gactornis enarratus
The Collared Nightjar (*Gactornis enarratus*) is a captivating, medium-sized nocturnal bird endemic to the humid evergreen forests of eastern Madagascar. Measuring approximately 24-28 cm (9.5-11 inches) in length, its cryptically mottled brown and grey plumage provides superb camouflage against the forest floor or tree bark. A distinctive, prominent white nuchal collar, encircling the nape, is its most striking field mark, contrasting with its otherwise subdued coloration and a conspicuous wh...
This species primarily inhabits humid evergreen forests, favoring areas near rivers, forest edges, and clearings, typically from sea level up to 1800 meters.
The Collared Nightjar is an insectivorous bird, feeding predominantly on flying insects such as moths and beetles, which it captures in flight using its wide gape.
The Collared Nightjar is predominantly nocturnal and crepuscular, spending its days roosting cryptically on the forest floor, among leaf litter, or perched lengthwise on low branches. Foraging occurs mainly at dusk and dawn, and throughout the night, as it sallies out from a perch to snatch flyin...
The Collared Nightjar is strictly endemic to Madagascar, where it is widely distributed throughout the eastern humid forest belt. Its range extends from the northern tip of the island near Sambava, southward along the entire eastern escarpment, reaching areas near Fort Dauphin in the southeast. W...
Least Concern
- The Collared Nightjar is endemic to Madagascar, found nowhere else in the world. - Its name comes from the striking white band around its nape, a key identification feature even in the dark. - Like other nightjars, it possesses superb cryptic plumage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with leaf l...