Nightjars

114 species

Nightjars are medium-sized nocturnal or crepuscular birds, characterized by long wings, short legs, and very short bills. They are sometimes called goatsuckers, due to the ancient folk tale that they sucked the milk from goats, or bugeaters, their primary source of food being insects. Some New World species are called nighthawks. Nightjars are found all around the world, with the exception of Antarctica and certain island groups such as Madagascar and Seychelles. They live in a variety of habitats, most commonly the open country with some vegetation. They usually nest on the ground, with a habit of resting and roosting on roads. Nightjars have cryptic plumage and their unusual perching habits help conceal them during the day.
show less
Nightjars are medium-sized nocturnal or crepuscular birds, characterized by long wings, short legs, and very short bills. They are sometimes called goatsuckers, due to the ancient folk tale that they sucked the milk from goats, or bugeaters, their primary source of food being insects. Some New World species are called nighthawks. Nightjars are found all around the world, with the exception of Antarctica and certain island groups such as Madagascar and Seychelles. They live in a variety of habitats, most commonly the open country with some vegetation. They usually nest on the ground, with a habit of resting and roosting on roads. Nightjars have cryptic plumage and their unusual perching habits help conceal them during the day.
show less