The square-tailed nightjar is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae which is native to tropical and subtropical woodlands of the Afrotropics. It has an extensive range south of the African equator. Despite not having a completely "square tail", its naming highlights a distinguishing field mark. The similarly plumaged slender-tailed nightjar, found in dry bush country of the tropics, differs namely by its protruding central tail feathers. It is alternatively known as the Gabon nightjar or Gaboon nightjar or the Mozambique nightjar.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa south of the equator
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in tropical and subtropical woodlands, including miombo and mopane, as well as savanna edges, riverine thickets, and coastal bush. It favors open or semi-open habitats with patches of bare ground for roosting. Often found near clearings, forest edges, and rural settlements, and may forage around artificial lights. Avoids dense closed-canopy rainforest but uses secondary growth and scrub.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This nocturnal nightjar often hunts over tracks and roads and may sit on warm surfaces after dusk, flushing at close range. Its song is a long, mechanical churr interspersed with sharp notes, carrying far on still nights. Males show bold white patches in the wings and outer tail corners, while females are more buffy and lack prominent white. It lays its eggs directly on bare ground or leaf litter, relying on superb camouflage.
Temperament
solitary and crepuscular
Flight Pattern
buoyant, moth-like flight with short glides and quick wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically roosts alone or in pairs on the ground or low branches, relying on camouflage. Nesting is a simple scrape on bare ground with 1–2 well-camouflaged eggs; both parents incubate and attend the young. Courtship includes aerial chases and wing-clapping displays by the male.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A long, steady mechanical churr delivered from a perch or the ground, often continuing for minutes. Interspersed with sharp tchik or chuck notes, especially during territorial interactions.
