The Blackish Nightjar bird, also known as the Swamp Nightjar, is a nocturnal bird species found in the sub-Saharan region of Africa. They belong to the Caprimulgidae family, a group of birds that are commonly known as nightjars. The scientific name of this bird is Caprimulgus nigrescens, and it is the largest nightjar found in Africa.
The Blackish Nightjar bird is often seen around the edges of vast swamps, lagoons, and wooded areas. It has cryptic plumage, which helps them blend in with their surroundings and avoid detection by predators. Their feathers range from dark brown to black, which makes it challenging to spot them during the day. However, despite their cryptic colors, they are still vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation.
These birds are nocturnal and take to the air once dusk falls. They use their keen sense of hearing to locate insects such as moths, beetles, and termites, which make up a large part of their diet. In addition to their keen sense of hearing, nightjars also have unique bristles around their mouth, which help them catch insects while in flight.
Blackish Nightjars breed during the dry season, and males can be heard calling at night to signal their willingness to mate. The female lays a single egg in a shallow scrape on the ground, and the male incubates the egg during the day. Nightjars have one of the shortest incubation periods of all birds, with the egg hatching after just 19-21 days.
In conclusion, the Blackish Nightjar is a fascinating bird species found in Africa. With their cryptic plumage, unique bristles, and keen sense of senses, they are truly remarkable creatures. However, their habitat is threatened, and it is essential to conserve their natural habitats to prevent their decline.