The pygmy nightjar is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae. It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Northeastern Brazil
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily across the semi-arid caatinga and rocky highlands (campos rupestres) of northeastern Brazil. Favors open, stony habitats with sparse scrub, lichen-covered rock slabs, and inselbergs. It roosts and nests directly on bare ground or flat rocks, relying on camouflage. Avoids dense forest, preferring edges, open shrublands, and rocky savanna-like clearings. Often found on plateaus and foothills with scattered cacti and bromeliads.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny nightjar roosts by day on bare rock where its mottled plumage makes it nearly invisible. It often chooses sun-warmed stone ledges and gravelly patches in Brazil’s semi-arid caatinga. At dusk it takes short sallies to snatch moths and beetles in near-silent flight. Males show small white patches on the wings and tail during display.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, fluttering sallies
Social Behavior
Typically found alone or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Nests on the ground without a constructed nest, usually a single egg placed on bare rock or gravel. Adults rely on stillness and camouflage to evade predators and will perform distraction displays if approached.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers a dry, rapid trill or churr from the ground or low perch at dusk and during moonlit nights. Also gives soft chip and tick notes while foraging. The song carries surprisingly far in open rocky habitats.
