The dusky nightjar or dusky whip-poor-will is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae. It is found in Costa Rica and Panama.
Region
Central America
Typical Environment
Occurs in the highlands of Costa Rica and western Panama, favoring the edges of cloud forest, elfin forest, and adjacent secondary growth. It often uses open patches, pastures with scattered shrubs, and volcanic slopes near forest. At night it hunts along roads, trails, and clearings where insects concentrate. By day it roosts on the ground or on low branches in shaded, leaf-littered areas, depending on camouflage to remain undetected.
Altitude Range
1500–3100 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The dusky nightjar is a nocturnal insect-hawker that hunts moths and other flying insects over forest edges and clearings. It roosts on the ground or low perches by day, relying on cryptic plumage for camouflage. Nests are simple scrapes on leaf litter, typically with a single egg, and both adults share incubation and chick care. Its soft, repetitive song carries at dusk and dawn along highland ridges.
Temperament
secretive and crepuscular
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, buoyant sallies
Social Behavior
Mostly solitary or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Nests are placed directly on leaf litter with minimal structure. Both sexes participate in incubation and chick rearing. Males sing from exposed perches at dusk and dawn to defend territories.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, repetitive series of clear whistles and trills delivered at dusk and dawn. Also gives quiet churring notes and contact calls during foraging.
