The Roraiman nightjar is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae. It is found in Brazil, Guyana, and Venezuela.
Region
Guianan Highlands (Guiana Shield)
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily around the tepui highlands and adjacent uplands of southern Venezuela, western Guyana, and northern Brazil (Roraima). It favors open or sparsely vegetated habitats such as tepui scrub, rocky outcrops, savanna edges, and white-sand shrublands near forest margins. By day it roosts on bare ground, rocks, or leaf litter where its mottled plumage provides excellent camouflage. At night it forages along tracks, clearings, and open slopes, often close to the ground.
Altitude Range
600–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Roraiman nightjar is a small, cryptically colored nightjar of the Guianan highlands, often detected by voice rather than sight. It rests motionless on the ground or low open substrates by day and becomes active at dusk, sallying low over open areas to catch insects. Males show subtle white patches in the wings and tail that can flash in flight, while females are browner and lack strong white. It nests directly on the ground without building a nest, relying on camouflage.
Temperament
solitary and crepuscular
Flight Pattern
low, buoyant flight with short, rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, especially in the breeding season. Nests are simple ground scrapes or bare patches where a single egg is laid. Adults rely on camouflage and distraction displays to deter predators. Territorial calling occurs at dusk and night from open perches or the ground.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, repeated series of whistles and trills, sometimes rendered as a mellow, rising note followed by a short pause. Also gives dry churring calls and soft chip notes during foraging.
