Caprimulgus nubicus
The Nubian Nightjar, *Caprimulgus nubicus*, is a captivating crepuscular bird of arid landscapes, perfectly camouflaged against its sandy and stony surroundings. A medium-sized nightjar, it typically measures 20-22 cm in length with a wingspan of around 40-45 cm and weighs 40-60 grams. Its plumage is a masterpiece of cryptic coloration, blending sandy-buffs, greys, and browns with intricate black and white mottling and streaking, making it virtually invisible on the ground during the day. Dis...
Arid and semi-arid environments, including sandy or gravelly deserts, wadis, acacia scrub, and sparse woodlands, often found near water sources or cultivation at low elevations.
Exclusively insectivorous, primarily consuming nocturnal flying insects such as moths, beetles, grasshoppers, and termites, caught on the wing during aerial forays.
Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, the Nubian Nightjar spends its days roosting motionless on the ground or low branches, relying entirely on its exquisite camouflage for concealment. Foraging occurs after dusk and before dawn, with individuals sallying from low perches or hunting in continuous...
The Nubian Nightjar has a disjunct distribution across North-East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, with four recognized subspecies. *C. n. nubicus* is resident along the Nile Valley in Egypt and Sudan, extending into western Saudi Arabia. *C. n. tamaricis* breeds in Jordan, Israel, and parts of ...
Least Concern
- The Nubian Nightjar's scientific name, *Caprimulgus nubicus*, translates roughly to 'goat-milker of Nubia,' a nod to the ancient myth that nightjars sucked milk from goats (they were simply attracted to the insects around livestock). - Its cryptic plumage is so effective that it can be nearly i...