European Nightjar numbers on RSPB nature reserves have reached a record high of 211 in 2024, thanks to long-term conservation ...

Though they’re called European nightjars, these birds actually spend most of the year in Africa, primarily in the grasslands of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Then, ...

The European nightjar is a protected species in the UK, so when forestry or construction work is planned to take place in their habitat, ecologists first need to check for nesting sites.

Nightjars use the moon's phases to time their long journeys The European nightjar, which migrates from northern Europe to sub-Saharan Africa, seems to synchronise its flying with phases of the moon.

Thermal-sensing cameras mounted on drones may offer a safer and more cost-effective way to locate nests of the elusive European nightjar in forestry work and construction areas, according to new ...

Bioacoustic recorders could provide us with vital additional information to help us protect rare and endangered birds such as the European nightjar, new research has shown. The study found that ...

A European nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus) showing its impressive camouflage, which enables it to evade predators by sitting still. Its large eyes and long whiskers help it detect insect prey in ...

A European nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus) in flight at dusk in Ashdown Forest, Sussex. The nightjar is often known as the ‘fern owl’, ... Nightjars are ventriloquists, the males swivelling their ...

The highest ever number of Nightjars have been recorded on RSPB nature reserves in the UK. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of reserve teams, volunteers and supporters, a record total of 211 were ...

European nightjar. The nightjar frequently spends the day on the ground among dead bracken and is beautifully camouflaged with its black, brown and cream feathers breaking its outline.

The word was first used in 1630 to describe the discordant sound of a European nightjar. Apparently some people regarded a bird singing at night as jarring to the senses.