LARGE-TAILED NIGHTJAR

The Large-tailed Nightjar is a medium-sized nocturnal bird, measuring around 25 to 30 centimetres in length. Its plumage is a mix of browns, greys, and blacks, providing excellent camouflage against the forest floor. The bird has a broad head, large eyes adapted for night vision, and a distinctive long tail, which gives it its name. The wings are long and pointed, aiding in agile flight.

This nightjar species is found across a wide range of habitats in South and Southeast Asia, extending to parts of northern Australia. It prefers open woodlands, forest edges, and sometimes even gardens and plantations. In Australia, it is predominantly found in the northern regions, including Queensland and the Northern Territory.

The breeding season for the Large-tailed Nightjar varies depending on its location but generally occurs during the warmer months. Unlike many birds that build nests, this nightjar lays its eggs directly on the ground, often in a shallow scrape lined with leaves or other debris. The female typically lays one or two eggs, which are well-camouflaged to blend in with their surroundings. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs and caring for the chicks once they hatch.

The diet of the Large-tailed Nightjar consists mainly of insects. It is a master of aerial hunting, catching its prey on the wing. As dusk falls, the nightjar takes to the air, using its wide mouth to scoop up flying insects such as moths, beetles, and mosquitoes. Its flight is silent and agile, allowing it to manoeuvre through the darkness with ease.

In the wild, the Large-tailed Nightjar can live up to 6 to 8 years, although this can vary depending on environmental conditions and predation pressures.

The vocalisations of the Large-tailed Nightjar are distinctive and often heard at dusk and dawn and can carry quite a distance in the stillness of the night. These calls serve both to establish territory and to attract a mate.

The Large-tailed Nightjar, like many other species, faces threats from habitat loss and degradation. Preserving its natural habitat is crucial to ensuring its survival. By protecting forests and woodlands, we not only safeguard the nightjar but also a myriad of other species that share its environment.

The Large-tailed Nightjar is a remarkable bird, perfectly adapted to its nocturnal lifestyle. Its presence enriches the biodiversity of the regions it inhabits, and through understanding and conservation, we can help ensure that this enchanting bird continues to thrive.