Antrostomus noctitherus
The Puerto Rican Nightjar (Antrostomus noctitherus) is a captivating and cryptically plumaged species, measuring approximately 22-25 cm (8.7-9.8 inches) in length with a wingspan around 45 cm (17.7 inches). Its intricate plumage, a mosaic of mottled browns, grays, and black, provides exceptional camouflage against the forest floor. Distinctive field marks include its large head, short, broad bill, and long rictal bristles surrounding the mouth, aiding in its nocturnal insect capture. Males ar...
This nightjar primarily inhabits arid and semi-arid deciduous forests, as well as dry limestone forests at low to mid-elevations. It favors areas with dense undergrowth and leaf litter for daytime roosting.
The diet consists primarily of nocturnal flying insects, including various species of moths, beetles, and cicadas. It forages by launching from a perch to catch prey in flight.
Exclusively nocturnal, the Puerto Rican Nightjar becomes active at dusk and dawn, spending its days camouflaged and motionless on the forest floor or perched horizontally on low branches. It is an aerial insectivore, employing a "sallying" foraging strategy where it launches from a perch to snatc...
The Puerto Rican Nightjar is entirely endemic to the island of Puerto Rico, where it is a non-migratory, year-round resident. Its distribution is highly localized, concentrated primarily in the dry, semi-deciduous limestone forests of the southwestern portion of the island. Key strongholds includ...
Endangered
- The Puerto Rican Nightjar was presumed extinct for 50 years before its rediscovery in 1961, earning it the nickname "Lazarus bird. - Its scientific name, *noctitherus*, aptly translates to "night hunter" in Greek, reflecting its nocturnal habits. - This bird is a master of camouflage, with plum...