Spotted Nightjar
Eurostopodus argus
NativeStatus
Fairly CommonRarity
Bird Gallery
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Species Description
The Spotted Nightjar is a widespread nocturnal bird of Australia’s drier inland, well adapted to open woodlands, scrublands, grasslands, and even desert environments. Its intricate patterning and colouration allow it to blend seamlessly with the ground, making it difficult to spot during the day as it roosts on sandy or stony soil.
Fun Facts
Spotted Nightjars can enter a state of torpor during cold or food-scarce periods, lowering their body temperature to conserve energy-a vital adaptation for desert living.
1. Large white spots on four outer primary wing feathers, visible in flight, with all-dark tail.
2. Broad buff or rufous collar around the neck, setting it apart from other nightjars.
3. Eerie, ascending wailing song that ends in a rapid series of high-pitched notes
Spotted Nightjars are found throughout most of inland Australia, from open forests and woodlands to spinifex grasslands, gibber plains, and deserts. They generally avoid dense forests and coastal areas, and are absent from Tasmania and much of the east and south of the Great Dividing Range. By day, they roost on the ground, camouflaged among rocks, leaf litter, or stony soil. At night, they are often encountered on outback roads, where their eyes reflect headlights, or hawking insects around artificial lights and campfires.
Physical Attributes
Height
27 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds60%
Top Locations
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