The Sykes's nightjar, Sykes' nightjar, Sind nightjar or Sindh nightjar is a nightjar species found in northwestern South Asia. This species has a large range with stable population size and therefore has been listed as "Least Concern" with no prediction of substantial human influence on their habitats in the near future.
Region
Northwestern South Asia and the northern Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Breeds and occurs in arid lowlands from southeast Iran and southern Afghanistan through Pakistan (notably Sindh) into northwestern India, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, and adjoining regions. It favors deserts, thorn-scrub, saline flats, and gravel plains with scattered bushes or acacias. In the non-breeding season some individuals move to Oman and the United Arab Emirates, where they winter in similar open habitats. It roosts on bare ground or among sparse vegetation and often forages near human settlements where insects concentrate around lights.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Sykes's nightjar is a cryptic, ground-roosting night bird of arid and semi-arid landscapes, exceptionally well camouflaged against sandy soils. It hunts on the wing for moths and other nocturnal insects, often foraging along tracks and near lights. The species nests directly on the ground, relying on camouflage rather than elaborate nest structures. Populations are considered stable and it is assessed as Least Concern.
in Banni Grasslands
Temperament
secretive and crepuscular
Flight Pattern
buoyant, moth-like flight with short rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs, roosting on the ground by day and relying on camouflage. Nests are simple scrapes on bare ground where 1–2 eggs are laid. Both adults attend the young, which are precocial and rely on stillness and cryptic down for protection.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A soft, dry, repetitive churring delivered from the ground or low perch at dusk and during the night. Also gives quiet chucks and clucking notes in flight.
