Grey Nightjar vs Eurasian Nightjar
Caprimulgus jotaka versus Caprimulgus europaeus
Play a quiz with Grey Nightjar and Eurasian Nightjar
Grey Nightjar
Eurasian Nightjar
In short
The Grey Nightjar and Eurasian Nightjar are both cryptically plumaged, but the Eurasian Nightjar male can be distinguished by its white patches on the primaries and tail, which are absent in females and Grey Nightjars. Both species rely heavily on camouflage, making them challenging to spot during the day.
Identification tips
Look for white patches on the primaries and tail of male Eurasian Nightjars, especially during flight. Both species are well-camouflaged, so these markings are crucial for identification in the field. Females and Grey Nightjars lack these white patches.
Plumage
Eurasian Nightjar males have distinctive white patches on the primaries and tail, which are not present in the Grey Nightjar. Both species have highly cryptic plumage, making them difficult to distinguish without these specific markings.