The Malaysian eared nightjar or Malay eared nightjar is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae. It was formerly placed in the genus Eurostopodus. It is known as Taptibau Kecil in Bahasa melayu or Tukang Tabtibau amongst Malaysian indigenous communities. It is dispersed throughout Southeast Asia, primarily occurring in Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore. It is a nocturnal insectivorous bird characterised by cryptic colouration of brown and white patterns, to aid it in camouflaging into its environment. Due to the nocturnal nature and feeding habits, it prefers subtropical, tropical and moist lowland forests, and have been recorded from sea-level to 1065 meters. It is easily distinguished by its 'ear-tufts,' giving it an "eared" appearance which led to its name.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in southern Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia (including Singapore), Sumatra, and Borneo (including Brunei, Sabah, and Kalimantan). Prefers lowland and hill dipterocarp forests, but also uses forest edges, clearings, and selectively logged areas. It roosts on horizontal branches or on the ground among leaf litter, relying on camouflage. Often found near rivers, swamps, and tracks where flying insects concentrate.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1065 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small eared-nightjar with distinctive ear-tufts, it relies on superbly cryptic mottled plumage to vanish against bark and leaf litter. It is strictly nocturnal and often hunts along forest edges and clearings at dusk and pre-dawn. Formerly placed in Eurostopodus, it is now generally treated in the genus Lyncornis. Its presence is easily detected by its ringing calls even when the bird itself is invisible.
Temperament
solitary and crepuscular-nocturnal
Flight Pattern
buoyant, silent flight with short glides and quick, flickering wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs; perches lengthwise on branches during the day. Nests on the ground without a constructed nest, usually laying a single egg on leaf litter. Courtship involves vocal displays at dusk, with the male calling from perches or open flyways.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of ringing, metallic notes and whistles given at dusk and night, often repeated at intervals. Also emits softer churrs and contact calls during foraging flights.
