The large-tailed nightjar is a species of nightjar known for its distinctive long, broad tail and cryptic plumage that allows it to blend into its surroundings. Found along the southern Himalayan foothills, eastern South Asia, Southeast Asia and northern Australia, its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical mangrove forest, and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
South and Southeast Asia to northern Australasia
Typical Environment
Occupies forest edges, secondary growth, open woodland, scrub, plantations, mangroves, and riverine habitats. Common along the southern Himalayan foothills, across eastern South Asia and much of Southeast Asia, extending to New Guinea and northern Australia. Roosts on bare ground, leaf litter, or low logs where its mottled plumage provides camouflage. Often occurs near human-modified landscapes such as plantations and village edges, provided there are open foraging spaces.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This nocturnal bird relies on exceptional cryptic plumage to vanish against leaf litter or bark while roosting on the ground. Males have prominent white corners on the long tail that are flashed in display flights at dusk. It lays eggs directly on the ground without building a nest and uses distraction displays to lead predators away. Its wide, bristle-framed gape helps it scoop flying insects in low light.
Temperament
secretive and crepuscular
Flight Pattern
buoyant with short rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Generally solitary or in pairs, roosting on the ground by day and becoming active at dusk. Breeding pairs lay one or two eggs directly on leaf litter with no constructed nest. Adults use distraction displays to protect chicks and may shift roost sites frequently to avoid detection.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
At dusk and night, males deliver repetitive churring phrases interspersed with sharp tchik or chuek notes. The song carries far in still air and often accompanies display flights over territories.
