Savanna Nightjar Bird Details
Caprimulgus affinis
Savanna Nightjar,allied nightjar, Franklin's nightjar;
Bidar Bagul
Thomas Horsfield, 1821
Caprimulgiformes (NIGHTJARS AND ALLIES)
Caprimulgidae
Caprimulgus
Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Parts of Central and West Africa, India (mainly in the northeastern regions)
Appearance :
The Savanna Nightjar has a cryptic plumage that helps it blend into its surroundings. It typically has a brownish color with lighter and darker mottling, making it look like the dry leaves and branches of its habitat. It has a long tail and a slightly hooked bill, with large, rounded wings.
Behaviour :
Savanna Nightjars are generally solitary or found in pairs. They are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. Their call is a distinctive "chirrup" or "churr" sound, used primarily during the breeding season for attracting mates. They are known for their elusive behavior and rely on camouflage to avoid detection.
Habitat :
They inhabit open savannas, grasslands, and light woodlands with sparse vegetation. They prefer areas with bare ground or low cover where they can easily hunt for insects.
Diet :
Savanna Nightjars primarily feed on insects, including moths, beetles, and other flying insects, which they catch in mid-air during their nocturnal foraging.
Conservation Status :
Least Concern
Distribution :
This species is widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa and can also be found in parts of South Asia.
Population Size :
While specific population estimates are challenging to determine, the species is considered to be common within its range.
Life Span :
The average lifespan of a Savanna Nightjar is typically around 2 to 4 years
Body And Tarsus:
- Body: The Savanna Nightjar has a compact, sturdy body with a flattened appearance, adapted for camouflage in its natural habitat.
- Tarsus Length: Approximately 20–25 mm.
Head And Bill :
- Head: The head is small and somewhat rounded with a broad, flat forehead, contributing to its overall cryptic appearance.
- Eyes: Large, dark eyes adapted for night vision, allowing the bird to hunt insects in low light conditions.
- Bill: The bill is short and slightly hooked, well-adapted for capturing insects.
- Bill Length: Approximately 10–12 mm.
Length :
The total body length ranges from 24 to 28 cm.
Neck :
The neck is short and not very prominent, blending into the body.
Size :
Medium-sized nightjar.
Tail Details :
- Tail: The tail is long and pointed, aiding in aerial maneuvers during flight.
- Tail Length: Approximately 10–12 cm.
- Feathers: The plumage is composed of mottled brown, gray, and buff colors that provide excellent camouflage against the ground.
Weight :
The weight typically ranges from 70 to 100 grams.
Wing :
The wings are long and pointed, facilitating swift flight and agile maneuverability.
Wing Span :
The wingspan ranges from 55 to 65 cm.
Facial Feature :
The Savanna Nightjar has a distinct facial pattern with a light-colored band across the forehead and dark streaks on the face, enhancing its camouflage.
Nest Details :
- Nest: The Savanna Nightjar does not build a traditional nest. Instead, it lays its eggs directly on the ground, often in a slight depression or scrape, which provides camouflage.
- Nest Made Up Of: The nest site is typically lined with a few dry leaves, grass, or other natural debris, helping to conceal the eggs.
Breeding Season :
The breeding season typically occurs from late spring to early summer, though this can vary by region.
Nesting Season :
Generally coincides with the rainy season when insect availability is high.
Egg Color :
The eggs are usually pale to light brown with darker mottling, which aids in their camouflage against the ground.
Egg Length :
The length of the eggs is approximately 25–28 mm.
Egg Width and Weight :
- Egg Width: The width of the eggs is about 19–21 mm.
- Egg Weight: Each egg typically weighs around 7–10 grams.
Clutch Size :
The typical clutch size ranges from 1 to 3 eggs.
No. of Broods :
Savanna Nightjars generally have one brood per breeding season, although under favorable conditions, they may attempt a second brood.
Incubation Period :
The incubation period lasts about 18 to 21 days
Nestling Period :
The nestlings fledge (leave the nest) approximately 16 to 20 days after hatching.
Vocalization :
Their vocalizations consist of a variety of calls, including a soft "churring" or "chirr-up" sound, especially during the breeding season. Males are particularly vocal to attract females.
Sex Demorphism :
Males may have slightly larger bodies and longer wing and tail feathers.
Migration Details :
The Savanna Nightjar is generally considered a resident species, but some populations may migrate locally in search of suitable habitats