# Standard-winged Nightjar

> The standard-winged nightjar is a night bird famous for the breeding male's wing feathers: one bare shaft on each wing, ending in a broad flag that trails behind in flight. It visits Murchison Falls seasonally and is looked for at dusk.

Source: https://nilesafarilodge.com/wildlife/standard-winged-nightjar

Bird · Migratory

*Caprimulgus longipennis*

## In brief

The standard-winged nightjar is a night bird famous for the breeding male's wing feathers: one bare shaft on each wing, ending in a broad flag that trails behind in flight. It visits Murchison Falls seasonally and is looked for at dusk.

## 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](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard-winged_nightjar).

## At a glance

- **Scientific name**: Caprimulgus longipennis
- **Family**: Caprimulgidae (nightjars)
- **Presence**: Migrant within Africa
- **Best time to see it**: Seasonal; breeding males are looked for at dusk in the drier months
- **Chance of seeing it**: Seen with some luck
- **Size**: 20–23 cm long; the male's wing "standards" reach about 50 cm
- **Conservation status**: Least Concern (IUCN Red List)

Seen on

- [Night Game Drive](https://nilesafarilodge.com/activities/night-game-drive)
- [Bird Watching](https://nilesafarilodge.com/activities/bird-watching)

[Plan your stay](https://nilesafarilodge.com/contact?topic=Accommodation+and+reservations#enquire)

Or call [Whatsapp: +256 757 363362 Landline: +256 776 938 933](tel:+256757363362+256776938933)

## 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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[All birds](https://nilesafarilodge.com/wildlife/birds)

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