The white-winged nightjar is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil and Paraguay.
Region
Central South America (Cerrado and adjacent savannas)
Typical Environment
Occurs in scattered, localized populations in central Brazil, eastern Bolivia, and eastern Paraguay, chiefly in the Cerrado and similar open grassland-savanna mosaics. It favors short, sparse grasslands with patches of bare sandy ground and scattered low shrubs. The species often uses recently burned or disturbed areas with low vegetation. It avoids tall, dense grass and closed woodland. Known sites include protected areas and private reserves where suitable open habitat persists.
Altitude Range
100–800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The white-winged nightjar is a crepuscular and nocturnal insect-eater of open savannas, famous for the male’s striking white wing and tail patches that flash during display flights. It nests directly on the ground with no constructed nest, relying on camouflage. Small, scattered populations persist mainly in the Cerrado biome, where habitat loss and frequent fires are major threats.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
buoyant, moth-like flight with short rapid wingbeats and glides
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs. Males perform aerial display flights at dusk and night over open patches, sometimes incorporating wing claps. Nests are a single egg laid directly on the ground with minimal or no nest structure; both adults rely on camouflage and stillness to avoid detection.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a soft, repetitive churring trill interspersed with thin tseet notes. Display flights may include audible wing claps and mechanical-sounding clicks.
