European Nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus) is a nocturnal and long-distance migratory bird species belonging to the family Caprimulgidae. Breeding across a wide geographical area of Eurasia, this species spends the winter in sub-Saharan Africa. It is known for its silent flight, camouflage ability, and characteristic call. The European nightjar prefers open woodland areas, heathlands, scrublands, and grasslands. Scientific studies on its ecological requirements also help in understanding the threats the species faces.
Morphological Characteristics
The European nightjar is a medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 26–28 cm in length with a wingspan of 57–64 cm. It weighs between 65 and 100 grams. Its plumage, mottled in shades of grey, brown, and white, provides excellent camouflage in its environment. It has a wide, small-beaked but flexible mouth that allows it to catch flying insects in the air. Its large eyes are adapted for night vision. With a flat, broad head and long wings, it has a hawk-like silhouette in flight.
Caprimulgus Europaeus at Rest (Pexels)
Distribution and Habitat
The European nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus) is widely distributed across the Palearctic region. It breeds in Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, and migrates to sub-Saharan Africa during the non-breeding season. Its main wintering grounds include countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola, Zambia, and neighboring regions. While its European presence is concentrated in southern and central areas, it is also found in the UK, Scandinavia, the Baltic States, and western Russia. Due to its migratory nature, it may occasionally be observed in parts of West Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. In the United Kingdom, nightjars typically arrive between late April and early May and depart in September. Breeding records exist especially in southern England, Wales, northern England, and southern Scotland.
Habitat preferences are directly related to the species’ feeding and breeding behavior. It favors dry and open areas such as heathlands with sparse trees, moorlands, forest clearings, young regenerating forests, and semi-natural grasslands. Areas with low vegetation cover, dry conditions, and well-drained soils that support high insect abundance are ideal for breeding. Other suitable habitats include calcareous terrain, post-industrial lands, sand dunes, semi-desert regions, and sparsely vegetated slopes.
Feeding Habits
The European nightjar is an insectivore that feeds on flying insects. Moths, flies, and other nocturnal insects make up the majority of its diet. It usually hunts in open spaces during twilight, near sunset, and sunrise. Its silent flight and strong night vision provide significant advantages when catching prey in low-light conditions.
Breeding and Migration Behavior
The breeding season across Europe generally spans from May to August. The female lays one or two eggs directly on leaf litter or bare soil without building a nest. The incubation period lasts about 17–18 days. Chicks become capable of leaving the nest around 18 days after hatching, and the species usually raises two broods per year.
As a long-distance migrant, the European nightjar departs Europe after the breeding season and migrates to sub-Saharan Africa, particularly the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola, and Zambia. During migration, it crosses mountains, deserts, and seas. It typically arrives in the UK in late April or early May and leaves by September.
Breeding and Migratory Behavior of the Shepherd's Nest (Generated by Artificial Intelligence)
Conservation Status
According to the IUCN Red List, the species is classified as "Least Concern". The global population is estimated at approximately 3,000,000–5,999,999 mature individuals. Although the European population appears stable in some areas, the overall trend shows a decline.
The primary threats facing the species include declining insect populations due to pesticide use, habitat loss, disturbance from recreational activities, road mortality, and climate change. In addition, eggs and chicks are vulnerable to a wide range of natural predators, such as crows, jays, martens, and dogs.
As part of conservation efforts, the species is listed in Annex I of the EU Birds Directive and Appendix II of the Bern Convention. In the United Kingdom, habitat restoration projects have led to population increases in open areas created by commercial forestry clearances. Planning and monitoring strategies are recommended to prevent heathland fragmentation and maintain habitat continuity.
Genetic Diversity and Research
Genetic studies on Caprimulgus europaeus are limited. However, genetic analyses of different subpopulations in Europe offer significant potential to understand the implications of migration routes and local adaptations for conservation strategies. To ensure the long-term conservation of the species, it is recommended to promote and maintain genetic diversity.
