Red-necked Nightjar

Caprimulgus ruficollis

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Brief #

Lichen-grey, barred and streaked with buff, chestnut and black.

Synonyms #

  • Chotacabras cuellirrojo (Spanish)
  • Avenoiteira papuda (Galician)

Red List Status #

The Red-necked Nightjar is unlikely to become extinct in the near future.
Find out more about IUCN's Red List program here

Description #

The variegated plumage resembles the European nightjar. The adult is lichen-grey, barred and streaked with buff, chestnut and black. The underparts are barred. It is larger and longer-tailed than the more widespread species, and has a rufous neck-collar. Both sexes have white wing spots, tail sides and throat. During the day this nightjar lies silent upon the ground, concealed by its plumage; it is difficult to detect, looking like a bit of lichen-covered twig or a fragment of bark.

Measurements #

Length: 30 - 32 cm
Wingspan: 65 - 68 cm
Weight: 62 - 76 g

Similar species #