Least Concern — common and widespread in suitable open habitats.

23–25 cm in length; medium-sized nightjar with long wings, short legs, and cryptic brown-grey plumage.

Mostly resident across South and Southeast Asia; some local seasonal movements may occur.

Non-migratory; only short local movements related to breeding or food availability.

Generally February to August, peaking before and during the monsoon; varies by region.

Lays eggs directly on bare ground without building a nest; chooses open grassy patches, scrubland, or cleared ground; clutch usually 2 eggs.

Open savanna, grasslands, scrub, dry fields, forest clearings, rocky ground, and sometimes near human settlements and roads.

Strictly insectivorous; feeds on moths, beetles, termites, and flying ants, captured in flight during dusk and night.