Savanna nightjar facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Savanna nightjar |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Caprimulgus
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| Species: |
affinis
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The savanna nightjar (Caprimulgus affinis) is a special bird that is mostly active at night. It is also known as the allied nightjar or Franklin's nightjar. You can find these birds living in parts of South Asia and Southeast Asia.
There are six different types, or subspecies, of savanna nightjars. These include C. a. monticolus and C. a. amoyensis. Scientists once thought this bird was the same species as the chirruping nightjar. The IUCN Red List, which checks on animal populations, says the savanna nightjar is "least concern." This means it has a large habitat and its numbers are staying steady.
Where Savanna Nightjars Live
Savanna nightjars usually live in open forests and areas with lots of bushes. However, they have recently started moving into cities in Taiwan. This might be because there are fewer natural predators in city areas. Losing their natural homes could also be a reason for this move.
When they move to cities, it can cause some issues. Male savanna nightjars make loud chirping sounds at night. This can disturb people's sleep from January to July. The birds have also sometimes flown into airplanes. Experts think these birds will keep moving into more cities in western Taiwan.
What Savanna Nightjars Look Like
The savanna nightjar is about 25 cm (9.8 in) long. Its wings can spread out to about 64 cm wide. These birds usually weigh between 54 and 110 grams. Their upper feathers are brownish-grey with small, wavy patterns. They also have light brown speckles.
The feathers on their underside are brown and have stripes. Savanna nightjars are nocturnal, which means they are active at night. You can often recognize them by their loud chirping calls. They usually make these sounds while flying in the evening. Their calls can even change depending on where they live.
