Caprimulgus fossii
The Square-tailed Nightjar (Caprimulgus fossii) is a medium-sized, cryptically plumaged nocturnal bird belonging to the Caprimulgidae family, often referred to as 'goatsuckers'. Measuring 20-24 cm (8-9.5 inches) in length with a wingspan of approximately 40-45 cm and weighing 32-60g, its plumage is a masterful blend of mottled browns, greys, and rufous, providing exceptional camouflage against leaf litter or tree bark. Distinctive field marks include its relatively square-tipped tail (especia...
Found in open woodlands, savannas, thornbush, and riverine thickets, often near water sources. Primarily occurs at low to moderate elevations, generally below 2000 meters.
Feeds almost exclusively on nocturnal insects, predominantly moths, beetles, termites, and grasshoppers, captured in flight.
This nightjar is strictly nocturnal and crepuscular, spending its days roosting motionless and perfectly camouflaged on the ground or a low branch. It employs an aerial hawking foraging strategy, sallying out from a perch to snatch insects in flight or performing continuous, graceful sweeps throu...
The Square-tailed Nightjar boasts an extensive range across Sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar. Its distribution spans from South Sudan and Ethiopia in the north, south through Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, to Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, Angola, and norther...
Least Concern
- The 'fossii' in its scientific name honors Captain Louis Foss, who collected specimens of the species in Madagascar. - It is one of the most widespread nightjar species across Sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar. - Its eggs are mottled and patterned, making them nearly invisible against the groun...