Prigogine's nightjar or the Itombwe nightjar, is a bird species of tropical central Africa. It is known from only one specimen taken at Malenge in the Itombwe Mountains in Zaire in August 1955.
Region
Albertine Rift (eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo)
Typical Environment
Presumed to inhabit montane forest edges, clearings, and shrub-dominated glades within the Itombwe Massif. Like related nightjars, it likely favors mosaic habitats with a mix of low vegetation and open ground for foraging at night. It may roost on leaf-littered ground or low tracks during the day, relying on cryptic plumage. Secondary growth, bamboo patches, and burned or regenerating areas could also provide suitable foraging lanes.
Altitude Range
1200–2600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Known only from a single specimen collected in 1955 at Malenge in the Itombwe Mountains of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Prigogine's nightjar is one of Africa's most mysterious birds. Its habits and voice remain undocumented, and it may be easily overlooked due to excellent camouflage and strictly nocturnal activity. Field surveys in its rugged, conflict-prone range are challenging, which partly explains the lack of modern records.
Temperament
secretive and nocturnal
Flight Pattern
buoyant, silent flight with short rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Presumed solitary or in loose pairs outside of breeding. As with other nightjars, nesting likely consists of laying 1–2 eggs directly on leaf litter or bare ground with minimal structure. Both adults may rely on camouflage and stillness to avoid detection by predators.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The species’ vocalizations have not been definitively documented; it likely gives a repetitive churring or trilling song similar to related Caprimulgus species. Soft contact calls and wing-clapping displays may occur during courtship.
