Chordeiles rupestris
The Sand-colored Nighthawk (Chordeiles rupestris) is a uniquely adapted caprimulgid, renowned for its cryptic plumage that blends seamlessly with the sandy riverine environments it inhabits across South America. Averaging 20-22 cm (8-9 in) in length with a wingspan of approximately 50-55 cm and weighing 40-60 grams, this species is distinguished by its pale, sandy-buff to grayish-white coloration, finely mottled and barred with darker shades, making it virtually invisible against its preferre...
This species exclusively inhabits open, sparsely vegetated sand and gravel bars along large, fast-flowing rivers, primarily within the Amazon and Orinoco basins, at elevations generally below 500 meters.
It is an obligate aerial insectivore, primarily feeding on a variety of flying insects caught during its crepuscular and nocturnal forays over water.
The Sand-colored Nighthawk is primarily crepuscular and nocturnal, becoming active at dusk and dawn to forage, though it can occasionally be seen active during overcast days. It roosts motionless directly on sandbars, relying heavily on its superb camouflage for concealment. Foraging involves gra...
The Sand-colored Nighthawk is a resident species found throughout the major river systems of tropical South America. Its primary distribution extends across the Amazon and Orinoco basins, encompassing parts of Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and central-western Brazil. It is almost e...
Least Concern
- The Sand-colored Nighthawk is a master of camouflage, with its plumage so perfectly matched to sandy riverbanks that it can be nearly impossible to spot even when standing in plain sight. - Unlike many nighthawks, it is largely non-migratory, remaining year-round within its Amazonian and Orinoc...