Bird · Migratory
Standard-winged Nightjar
How to identify the standard-winged nightjar
A small brown nightjar, well camouflaged by day. The breeding male is unmistakable in flight, appearing to be followed by two small dark birds.
Where to see the standard-winged nightjar in Murchison Falls National Park
Along tracks and open ground at dusk and on a night game drive.
Habitat
Dry savanna, open woodland and scrub.
What the standard-winged nightjar eats
Moths, beetles and other insects caught in flight at night.
Behaviour
Active at dusk and after dark. It moves within Africa between breeding and non-breeding areas.
Best time to see the standard-winged nightjar
Seasonal; breeding males are looked for at dusk in the drier months. Migrant within Africa.
Last reviewed 5 October 2026. Further reading: en.wikipedia.org.
Questions about the standard-winged nightjar
What are the "standards" of a standard-winged nightjar?
In the breeding season the male grows one greatly lengthened feather on each wing: a bare shaft about 50 cm long with a flag at the tip. They are raised in display flight.
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