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Animal Profile IUCN: LC

Macrodipteryx longipennis

Macrodipteryx longipennis,Standard-winged Nightjar

Macrodipteryx longipennis (also known as Standard-winged Nightjar) is a four-winged bird found in the savannas and forests of Africa.They do not nest, and the two long oval eggs are laid directly on the ground. They fly at dusk and are often as quiet and light as moths at sunset. In fl

Climbing birds 436 views
Scientific Name Macrodipteryx longipennis,Standard-winged Nightjar
Length 20-23cm
Weight No textual research information is available
Lifespan No textual research information is available
IUCN Status LC
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Table of Contents

    Macrodipteryx longipennis (also known as Standard-winged Nightjar) is a four-winged bird found in the savannas and forests of Africa.

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    They do not nest, and the two long oval eggs are laid directly on the ground. They fly at dusk and are often as quiet and light as moths at sunset. In flight, they open their mouths wide to hunt moths and beetles. During the day they rest on the ground.

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    Males develop one long feather on each wing during the breeding season - a fly feather extending up to 38 cm in the middle of the wing, and a bare stem 20 cm or more up from the base. In normal flight, this feather drags behind. When the mating display flies, the male flaps his wings quickly to raise his two long feathers, like two flags. Since there are no muscles to control the two long feathers, they flutter in the wind. Males without these two "flags" will not be accepted by females. Although these two long feathers are important for courtship, they are a hindrance to the flag-winged nighthawk in other ways. As soon as the breeding season is over, the male will peck down these two long feathers.


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    Profile Details

    Key characteristics, appearance, and habitat information.

    Traits & Behavior

    Appearance

    It is 20-23 cm long. The beak is short and the mouth is large, the nose is tubular, the wings are long and pointed, the feathers are soft and clearly spotted, and the tail is convex. There was little difference between male and female birds in breeding season.

    Distribution & Habitat

    It is found in the dry savannas of Africa from Senegal to Ethiopia.
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