Red-necked Nightjar
Photographed in Costa Blanca, The Red-necked Nightjar (Caprimulgus ruficollis) is a nocturnal bird found mainly in the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal) and parts of northwestern Africa. It’s the largest nightjar species in Europe and is known for its cryptic plumage that makes it nearly invisible on the ground during the day.
Key facts:
Size: About 29–33 cm long, with a wingspan of 55–64 cm.
Appearance: Mottled brown, grey, and black plumage with a reddish-brown collar (the "red neck") that gives the species its name.
Habitat: Prefers open woodland, scrub, and heathland, often near sandy or rocky areas.
Behavior: Active at dusk and night, feeding on moths and other flying insects. During the day, it rests motionless on the ground, relying on camouflage.
Call: A distinctive churring song and flapping wing displays in flight.
Migration: Breeds in Iberia and Morocco; migrates to tropical West Africa in winter.
Red-necked Nightjar
Photographed in Costa Blanca, The Red-necked Nightjar (Caprimulgus ruficollis) is a nocturnal bird found mainly in the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal) and parts of northwestern Africa. It’s the largest nightjar species in Europe and is known for its cryptic plumage that makes it nearly invisible on the ground during the day.
Key facts:
Size: About 29–33 cm long, with a wingspan of 55–64 cm.
Appearance: Mottled brown, grey, and black plumage with a reddish-brown collar (the "red neck") that gives the species its name.
Habitat: Prefers open woodland, scrub, and heathland, often near sandy or rocky areas.
Behavior: Active at dusk and night, feeding on moths and other flying insects. During the day, it rests motionless on the ground, relying on camouflage.
Call: A distinctive churring song and flapping wing displays in flight.
Migration: Breeds in Iberia and Morocco; migrates to tropical West Africa in winter.