The common nightingale, rufous nightingale or simply nightingale, is a small passerine bird which is best known for its powerful and beautiful song. An Old World flycatcher, it belongs to a group of more terrestrial species, often called chats. Its range partly overlaps with that of the more northerly thrush nightingale, a closely related species with which hybrids have occurred.
Region
Europe, North Africa and Western Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds across much of Europe and western Asia in habitats with dense undergrowth such as thickets, hedgerows, woodland edges, and scrub. It prefers damp or well-vegetated areas with tangled shrubs for cover and nesting. During migration and winter it uses similar dense cover in savannas, riverine thickets, and secondary growth in sub-Saharan Africa. It is often found near the ground, moving through leaf litter and low shrubs. Human-modified landscapes with suitable shrub layers, such as overgrown gardens and parks, can also be used.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The common nightingale is famed for its powerful, rich, and varied song, delivered both by day and often at night. Males sing to defend territories and attract mates, with especially vigorous nocturnal singing before pairing. It favors dense, low vegetation and is more often heard than seen. Populations have declined in parts of northwestern Europe due to habitat loss, though the species remains widespread overall.
Distribution map of subspecies
Male
Luscinia megarhynchos
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights
Social Behavior
Generally solitary during the breeding season, with males establishing and defending territories through persistent singing. Nests are built low in dense vegetation or on the ground, typically a cup of leaves and grass. Clutches usually contain 4–5 eggs, and both parents care for the young. Outside breeding, it is more secretive and may associate loosely at rich feeding sites during migration.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A rich, loud, and varied song of fluting whistles, trills, and liquid phrases delivered from concealed perches, often at night. The performance is highly expressive with repeated motifs and sudden bursts of volume. Calls include sharp ticks and softer contact notes.
