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Great eared nightjar

The great eared nightjar is a nocturnal bird species in the family Caprimulgidae, scientifically known as *Lyncornis macrotis*.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The great eared nightjar is a nocturnal bird species in the family Caprimulgidae. It is scientifically known as *Lyncornis macrotis* and occurs in South and Southeast Asia. The species is known for its long ear tufts, cryptic brown plumage, and large size among nightjars.

Taxonomy and naming

The great eared nightjar belongs to the nightjar family Caprimulgidae and is placed in the genus *Lyncornis*. Its scientific name is *Lyncornis macrotis*, referring to its long ear-like tufts.

Description

This species is a large, brown, cryptically patterned nightjar with barred wings and tail. Its long ear tufts, large eyes, and nocturnal habits contribute to its distinctive appearance.

Distribution and habitat

The species is found in South Asia and Southeast Asia, including parts of India and Sri Lanka and across mainland and island Southeast Asia. It generally inhabits moist lowland tropical forest, subtropical forest, forest edges, and other areas with dense vegetation.

Behaviour and diet

The great eared nightjar is nocturnal and feeds mainly on flying insects such as moths and beetles. Like other nightjars, it is adapted for low-light foraging and daytime roosting in camouflage.

Conservation

The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that it is not currently considered globally threatened. However, habitat loss and human disturbance are mentioned as pressures on some populations.

Key facts

  • It is a nocturnal insect-eating bird.
  • Its range includes South Asia and Southeast Asia, from India to the Philippines.
  • It is considered the largest nightjar species in terms of length.
  • The IUCN lists it as Least Concern, though habitat loss is a noted threat.
  • Its long ear tufts are feather tufts rather than true ears.
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Canadian context

There is no major native Canadian distribution; Canadian interest is mainly through birdwatching, zoological education, and wildlife media coverage.

Frequently asked questions

What is the scientific name of the great eared nightjar?
Its scientific name is *Lyncornis macrotis*.
Where does the great eared nightjar live?
It occurs in South and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
What does the great eared nightjar eat?
It mainly eats flying insects, including moths and beetles.
Is the great eared nightjar endangered?
No. The IUCN lists it as Least Concern.
Why is it called an eared nightjar?
The name refers to the long feather tufts on its head, which resemble ears.

References

  1. IUCN Red List — https://www.iucnredlist.org
    Supports: Conservation status as Least Concern
  2. eBird — https://ebird.org/species/grenig1
    Supports: Species name, identification traits, habitat, and vocalisation
  3. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_eared_nightjar
    Supports: General distribution, taxonomy, and species overview
  4. Birdzilla — https://www.birdzilla.com/birds/great-eared-nightjar/
    Supports: Physical description, range, and habitat
  5. Live Science — https://www.livescience.com/animals/birds/great-eared-nightjar-the-baby-dragon-bird-that-lays-its-eggs-on-the-floor
    Supports: Diet, size, and distribution
  6. Critter Science — https://critter.science/the-great-eared-nightjar/
    Supports: Size, range, habitat, and conservation status