The lyre-tailed nightjar is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Andean chain from Venezuela south through Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru to Bolivia and northwestern Argentina. It inhabits montane and cloud forest edges, clearings, landslides, and steep ravines with scattered trees and shrubs. The species often uses stream corridors and open roadcuts within forested landscapes for foraging. By day it roosts on the ground or low branches, relying on cryptic plumage. It is generally patchy but can be locally common in suitable edge habitats.
Altitude Range
1000–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Males have extraordinarily long, lyre-shaped outer tail feathers that can triple their apparent length and are used in dramatic display flights at dusk. Like other nightjars, it nests directly on leaf litter without building a true nest, typically laying a single egg. It relies on superb camouflage by day and becomes active at twilight and during the night.
Lyre-tailed nightjar
Temperament
secretive and crepuscular
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with buoyant glides
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs. Males perform display flights at dusk, fanning and lifting the tail streamers while giving song and occasional wing claps. Nesting is on the ground on leaf litter, typically with a single egg and both parents sharing incubation and care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, far-carrying whistled call delivered repeatedly at dusk and night, often rising or slightly falling in pitch. Also gives soft churrs and sharp notes during display and territorial interactions.
