Rufous Nightjar (Antrostomus rufus)

Identification & Behavior: ~26 cm (10.2 in). The Rufous Nightjar is overall rufous brown. The upperparts are vermiculated and interspersed with blackish spots and streaks. The throat and sides of the neck are dusky rufous. It has a thin rufous or buff collar. The wings are rufous brown without white or buff bands. The tail in the male is dusky brown with about a third of the bottom portion white in color. The Rufous Nightjar is very similar to the Silky-tailed Nightjar but is distinguished by being warmer rufous and having different vocalizations.

Status:   The Rufous Nightjar has a patchy distribution along the foothill of the Andes at elevations ranging between 300-1600 m. It is associated with dry and semi-open and also stunted forest habitats. The Rufous Nightjar also occurs in Co, Ec, Br, and Bo.

Name in Spanish: Chotacabras Rufo.

Sub-species: Rufous Nightjar (Antrostomus rufus).

Meaning of Name: Antrostomus: Gr. Antron= cavern and stoma, stomatos= mouth. rufus: L. rufus=  red, ruddy, rufous.

See more of the Family Caprimulgidae