Caprimulgus celebensis
The Sulawesi Nightjar, Caprimulgus celebensis, is a medium-sized, cryptically plumaged nocturnal bird endemic to Sulawesi and surrounding Indonesian islands. Measuring approximately 24-27 cm in length with a wingspan proportional to its agile flight, its plumage is a masterful blend of mottled browns, greys, and buffs, providing exceptional camouflage against forest leaf litter and tree bark. Key field marks include its large head, flat crown, prominent white crescent-shaped throat patch, and...
Found primarily in lowland and hill forests, including secondary growth, forest edges, and plantations, often near clearings or roads, from sea level up to around 1,500 meters.
Exclusively insectivorous, feeding on a wide range of flying invertebrates such as moths, beetles, and cicadas, which it catches in flight using its wide gape.
Strictly nocturnal and crepuscular, the Sulawesi Nightjar roosts silently and perfectly camouflaged on the ground or low branches during the day, becoming active shortly after dusk. It is an aerial hawker, sallying from a low perch or the ground to capture flying insects mid-air. Males are territ...
The Sulawesi Nightjar is entirely endemic to the Wallacean region of Indonesia, primarily inhabiting the large island of Sulawesi. Its distribution extends to several smaller, adjacent islands, indicating its non-migratory, resident nature across this range. Two recognized subspecies exist: *Capr...
Least Concern
- The name 'nightjar' comes from their nocturnal habits and the jarring, churring calls of many species. - Their superb cryptic plumage makes them incredibly difficult to spot during the day, even when roosting in plain sight. - This species is endemic, found only on Sulawesi and a few small surr...