Tepuiornis whitelyi
The Roraiman Nightjar (Tepuiornis whitelyi) is a cryptic, medium-sized nocturnal bird, measuring approximately 20-22 cm in length and weighing 30-40 grams. Its plumage is a masterpiece of camouflage, featuring rich rufous-brown tones heavily mottled with blackish-brown, buff, and whitish streaks and spots, allowing it to blend seamlessly with its forest floor or rocky tepui environment. Key field marks include a distinct tawny nuchal collar, a small white spot on the throat, and, notably in m...
Resident in montane evergreen forests, open woodlands, and shrubby areas on the ancient sandstone tepui plateaus, typically found at elevations between 1,000 and 2,200 meters.
Feeds primarily on a variety of nocturnal aerial insects, including moths, beetles, and other invertebrates, caught in flight.
Strictly nocturnal, the Roraiman Nightjar emerges at dusk to forage, spending its days roosting cryptically on the ground or low branches, relying entirely on its superb camouflage. It employs an aerial hawking strategy, making frequent sallies from a preferred perch or undertaking continuous fli...
The Roraiman Nightjar is a resident endemic to the isolated tepui plateaus of the Guiana Shield in northern South America. Its breeding range encompasses specific high-elevation areas primarily within southern Venezuela (especially Bolívar state), western Guyana, and northern Brazil (Roraima stat...
Least Concern
- The Roraiman Nightjar was historically classified within the widespread genus *Caprimulgus* before being recognized as distinct enough for its own monotypic genus, *Tepuiornis*, highlighting its unique evolutionary path. - Its scientific name, *whitelyi*, honors Henry Whitely, a British ornitho...