Caprimulgus affinis
The Savanna Nightjar (Caprimulgus affinis) is a cryptically plumaged, medium-sized nocturnal bird, masterfully camouflaged within its varied habitats across South and Southeast Asia. Measuring approximately 22-27 cm (8.7-10.6 inches) in length with a wingspan around 45-55 cm (17.7-21.7 inches) and weighing 50-80 grams, its mottled grey, brown, and buff plumage, intricately streaked and spotted, allows it to blend seamlessly into leaf litter or bare ground during daylight hours. Key identifica...
This adaptable species inhabits a wide array of open and semi-open landscapes, predominantly savannas, grasslands, sparse woodlands, scrubland, and cultivated areas. It is found from sea level up to elevations of around 2,000 meters (6,500 feet), particularly favoring areas with bare ground for r...
The diet consists almost exclusively of a wide variety of nocturnal flying insects, including moths, beetles, ants, termites, and grasshoppers. These are captured primarily by aerial hawking during sustained flight, though it occasionally gleans insects from vegetation or the ground.
The Savanna Nightjar is primarily crepuscular and nocturnal, spending its days motionless, perfectly blended into its surroundings, typically on the ground or occasionally on low branches or fence posts. As dusk falls, it becomes active, embarking on agile, moth-like flights to hawk for insects i...
The Savanna Nightjar boasts an extensive geographical distribution across South and Southeast Asia, stretching from the Indian subcontinent eastward through mainland Southeast Asia and extending into the Indonesian archipelago and the Philippines. Its breeding range covers most of India, Sri Lank...
Least Concern
- The Savanna Nightjar is a master of camouflage; its mottled plumage makes it virtually invisible against leaf litter or bare ground during the day. - Like other nightjars, it's sometimes referred to as a "goatsucker" due to an ancient myth that they sucked milk from goats, a misconception likel...