Image via Macaulay Library
White-tailed Nightjar
- Scientific name
- Hydropsalis cayennensis
- Family
- Caprimulgidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Shrubland
- Wing shape
- Rounded
- Tail shape
- Notched
Where it came from
The White-tailed Nightjar, classified as Hydropsalis cayennensis, is a species of bird belonging to the nightjar family, Caprimulgidae. Found primarily in tropical regions of South America and the Caribbean, this species is well-adapted to open habitats, including savannas, grasslands, and forest edges. Its biological classification reflects a long history of ornithological study within the Neotropics, where it was documented by naturalists observing its crepuscular behavior and distinct, notched tail shape.
The evolutionary design of the White-tailed Nightjar is optimized for aerial foraging during twilight hours. Its rounded wing shape provides the maneuverability required for hawking insects mid-flight, while the notched tail aids in rapid directional changes. These physical characteristics were documented during the 18th and 19th centuries as explorers sought to categorize the diverse avian life of the Guianas and surrounding territories. The species remains a subject of ecological interest for its cryptic plumage, which allows it to remain effectively camouflaged against the forest floor during the daylight hours.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About White-tailed Nightjar
White-tailed Nightjar is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track White-tailed Nightjar on collecto.rs?
White-tailed Nightjar doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of White-tailed Nightjar?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the White-tailed Nightjar catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for White-tailed Nightjar is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
