Tawny-collared Nightjar

Overview

The tawny-collared nightjar, Antrostomus salvini, is a monotypic nightjar species endemic to Mexico. It belongs to the family Caprimulgidae and was previously considered a subspecies of the silky-tailed nightjar. The species is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, although its population is estimated to be decreasing.

Identification

• Measures 23 to 25.5 cm in length, with one female recorded at 56 g.
• Features a broad tawny or buff collar on the nape and sides of the neck, distinguishing it from other nightjars.
• Upperparts are blackish brown with fine light brown speckles and broad blackish streaks on the back and rump; wings display tawny spots and bars.
• The song is described as an "abrupt, clipped chi-wihw' or tchi-wheeu, repeated rapidly," usually heard at dawn and dusk.

Habitat

Found in northeastern Mexico, ranging from Nuevo León and Tamaulipas south to Veracruz, this bird inhabits arid to semihumid landscapes such as brushy woodland, thorn forest, and dense scrublands. It shuns humid and heavily forested areas and occupies elevations from sea level to 500 m. While mostly resident, some individuals apparently move further south during the nonbreeding season.

Diet

As a nocturnal species, the tawny-collared nightjar hunts for flying insects by sallying from a perch and possibly also from the ground.

Did you know?

Like many nightjars, this species does not build a nest; instead, it lays its two-egg clutch directly on the ground during its breeding season from April to August.