Caprimulgus fraenatus
The Sombre Nightjar (Caprimulgus fraenatus) is a master of camouflage, a medium-sized nocturnal insectivore renowned for its cryptic plumage. Measuring approximately 23-25 cm in length with a weight typically between 50-70g, its coloration is a mottled blend of grey-browns, black streaking, and buff patches, allowing it to disappear against the ground or tree bark. Males sport distinctive white patches on either side of the throat and often possess white tips on their outer tail feathers, whi...
This nightjar thrives in open woodlands, savannas, acacia scrub, and bushy country, often preferring semi-arid habitats or rocky hillsides. It can be found from sea level up to elevations of approximately 2,000 meters.
Exclusively insectivorous, the Sombre Nightjar feeds primarily on a variety of flying insects, including moths, beetles, grasshoppers, ants, and termites, which it catches in flight.
Primarily crepuscular and nocturnal, the Sombre Nightjar spends its days motionless, perfectly camouflaged on the ground or low branches, becoming active at dusk and dawn. It employs an aerial hawking foraging strategy, taking short, agile flights from a perch or the ground to snatch flying insec...
The Sombre Nightjar boasts a wide distribution across eastern and southern Africa. Its breeding range encompasses a broad swathe from Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia south through Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and into southeastern parts of the Democratic Republic of Co...
Least Concern
- The name 'Sombre Nightjar' perfectly reflects its subdued, cryptic plumage that allows it to vanish into its surroundings. - Its extraordinarily wide gape is a specialized adaptation, enabling it to efficiently scoop up insects while in rapid flight. - Sombre Nightjars can rotate their heads ne...