Did You Know About These 10 Fascinating Nocturnal Birds Of India?

NightjarNightjars are medium-sized, camouflaged birds active at dusk and night, feeding on flying insects. Found across India, they roost on the ground and are known for their silent, moth-like flight.Indian Night HeronThe Indian Night Heron, also called Malayan Night Heron, inhabits dense forests and wetlands. It forages at night for fish, frogs, and insects, often remaining motionless during the day.Jerdon’s NightjarFound mainly in scrub and open woodland, Jerdon’s Nightjar is known for its repetitive “chuck” call at night. It relies heavily on camouflage, blending seamlessly into dry leaf litter.Savannah NightjarThis species prefers open country, grasslands, and agricultural areas. Active after dusk, it feeds on nocturnal insects and is identified by its fast, jerky flight and distinctive churring call.Great Eared NightjarIndia’s largest nightjar species, the Great Eared Nightjar roosts in forest undergrowth. It has prominent ear tufts and a deep, booming call, and hunts large nocturnal insects in flight.FrogmouthFrogmouths, related to nightjars, have wide beaks for catching insects. Nocturnal and highly camouflaged, they are found in forested regions of the Western Ghats and northeastern India, roosting motionless by day.Large-tailed NightjarThis widespread species prefers open woodlands and plantations. It has a loud “chuck-chuck” call at night and long tail feathers, especially in males, aiding in aerial insect hunting.Indian Stone-curlewAlso called the Indian Thick-knee, it is a ground-dwelling nocturnal bird found in dry grasslands and scrub. It hunts insects and small reptiles, using its large eyes to see in low light.Slaty-legged CrakeThough not exclusively nocturnal, this secretive wetland bird forages mainly in the early night. It feeds on insects, molluscs, and crustaceans, and is often heard more than seen.Spiky & Armoured: 10 Fascinating Animals With Natural Shells And ThornsRead More