When we think of birds, familiar names like crows, macaws, and peacocks often come to mind. These are well-known species found in our communities. But have you ever heard of the Great-Eared Nightjar? This enchanting bird might just be the most intriguing creature you’ve ever heard of! Found in India and its neighbouring countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia, it remains a mystery to many. This blog post provides information about this incredible dragon-like bird!
Great-Eared Nightjar Appearance & Size
It is a small yet mesmerizing bird with distinctive features. Despite its charm, it’s listed as endangered. The Great-Eared Nightjar combines stealthy flight with a dragon-like appearance, making it a bird that seems almost otherworldly. The Great-Eared Nightjar is a stealthy nocturnal hunter, catching insects mid-flight with its silent approach. With impressive flight skills and a powerful call, it is truly one-of-a-kind!
The eared nightjar, often dubbed the “dragon bird nightjar” for its otherworldly look, is the largest of its kind. It resembles a creature straight out of a fantasy novel. The Great-Eared Nightjar’s plumage is dark brown and black, with a striking crown. It weighs between 100 to 150 grams and measures 21 to 41 centimetres. Females are generally larger and heavier than males. Can you imagine spotting a bird that looks like it’s just stepped out of a fantasy world?
Dragon Bird Nightjar Historical Background
The history of the Great Eared Nightjar is as captivating as the bird itself. First described by Irish zoologist William Jardine in 1831, based on specimens from Manila, Philippines, this bird’s story has continued to unfold over the decades. From its description in the Western Ghats in 1875 to its discovery in the Himalayas in 1838, the Great-Eared Nightjar has long intrigued ornithologists. Isn’t it amazing how one bird can connect so many parts of the world?
Great Eared Nightjar Habitat
Where does the Great-Eared Nightjar make its home? You’ll find it in Western Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand. With India hosting a significant portion of their population, these birds prefer habitats near water bodies. They nest on the forest floor, hidden under a layer of leaves, making them masters of camouflage.
Diet & Predation
These birds feast on insects like worms, termites, moths, beetles, and other small flying insects. Their impressive feathers help them capture prey, even though their legs are relatively weak. But watch out! It also faces threats from predators like foxes, dogs, crows, and eagles. In the grand circle of life, they’re both hunters and hunted.
It’s Lifespan & Breeding
In Europe, these birds typically live up to four years. However, in India and its neighbouring regions, they might live slightly longer, with the maximum recorded age being just over 12 years. Great-eared nightjars lay one egg directly on the forest floor, camouflaged by leaf litter, with both parents sharing the responsibility of incubation. Such dedication to their young is truly inspiring, right?
Great-Eared Nightjar As A Pet
Great-eared nightjars are not suitable as pets due to their nocturnal nature and specialized care requirements. While these birds are fascinating, and their behaviours are intriguing, they don’t make great pets. Being nocturnal, they are active at night when most people are asleep. Additionally, their specialized care needs and dietary requirements are challenging to meet. Plus, their loud calls might not be ideal in a quiet neighbourhood. They are best appreciated in their natural habitat!
Nightjar’s Facts
- It has feather tufts on its head that resemble ears—how cool is that?
- As a nocturnal feeder, it relies on its keen vision and hearing to locate insects. Talk about high-tech hunting!
- Male nightjars perform spectacular aerial displays to attract mates—interesting?
- They are masters of camouflage, blending seamlessly into their surroundings.
Conclusion
The Great-Eared Nightjar is a bird of nocturnal wonders and mysteries. Silent during the day and active at night, it uses its large eyes and keen senses to navigate and hunt in the dark. Sadly, habitat loss poses a significant threat to their population. By learning about and protecting it, we can help ensure that future generations experience this remarkable bird’s wonder. Isn’t it amazing how such an elusive creature can captivate our curiosity?
FAQs
What does a Nightjar sound like?
A nightjar makes a distinctive churring sound, similar to a spinning coin or sewing machine. You might hear a rhythmic “jar-jar-jar” on quiet nights.
Is a Great Eared Nightjar related to owls?
Despite their nocturnal nature, nightjars are not related to owls. Owls are raptors, while nightjars use their beaks for hunting.
Are long-eared Nightjars common?
Long-eared nightjars are rare and endangered due to habitat loss. Long-eared nightjars are endangered and not commonly seen due to habitat loss.
Can Nightjars see at night?
Nightjars have large eyes with oil droplets that enhance their vision in the dark, helping them navigate and hunt at night.
When can you hear a Nightjar?
Nightjars are most active and vocal at night, so you’ll hear them as the sun sets and darkness falls.
Are great-eared nightjars endangered?
While not all subspecies are endangered, some, like the Jamaican poorwill and Puerto Rican nightjar, face critical threats.
How does the great-eared nightjar scream?
Amidst the nocturnal symphony, the Great-Eared Nightjar emits a loud “bee-AHWEE!” echoing through the moonlit forest.
