Lyncornis temminckii
The Malaysian Eared Nightjar, *Lyncornis temminckii*, is a medium-sized and strikingly cryptic nocturnal bird, measuring approximately 25-28 cm in length with a weight typically ranging from 70-90g. Its plumage is a masterpiece of camouflage, an intricate pattern of mottled browns, rufous, blacks, and buffs that allows it to blend seamlessly into leaf litter or tree bark. The most distinctive field mark, giving the species its common name, are the prominent erectile ear-tufts on either side o...
This species primarily inhabits lowland evergreen rainforests, secondary forests, and logged forest edges, favoring areas with open undergrowth. It is typically found from sea level up to moderate elevations of 1,000 meters, occasionally higher.
The diet consists almost exclusively of large flying insects, primarily moths and beetles, which are caught mid-air using their wide gape.
Strictly nocturnal and crepuscular, the Malaysian Eared Nightjar spends its days perfectly camouflaged, roosting motionless on the forest floor amidst leaf litter or horizontally on tree branches. Its foraging strategy involves hawking large flying insects, predominantly moths and beetles, in agi...
The Malaysian Eared Nightjar is a resident species found throughout much of Southeast Asia. Its breeding range extends across the Malay Peninsula, encompassing southern Thailand, peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. Further east, it is widespread across the islands of Sumatra and Borneo in...
Least Concern
- The Malaysian Eared Nightjar's ear tufts are not ears; they are feathers that help break up its outline, enhancing its camouflage. - Its exceptional camouflage makes it incredibly difficult to spot during the day, even when it's just feet away. - It possesses disproportionately large eyes, opti...