The great eared nightjar is a unique bird species found in South and Southeast Asia, characterized by its distinctive appearance and hunting habits. Nicknamed the “baby dragon,” this nocturnal bird has large, forward-facing eyes and head tufts resembling ears, making it appear more like a reptile than a bird. The bird’s mottled brown, gray, and black plumage allows it to blend seamlessly into its surroundings.
Unlike other birds, great eared nightjars do not build traditional nests but instead lay eggs directly on the forest floor or in shallow beds of leaves. This unusual behavior is thought to be an adaptation for camouflage, protecting both the egg and chick from predators.
The bird’s diet consists mainly of moths and flying insects, which it catches mid-air using its wide mouth during twilight hours. Its silent flight allows it to hunt efficiently without alerting predators like owls and other birds of prey.
A distinctive call characterizes the great eared nightjar, consisting of a sharp “tsiik” sound followed by a pause and a longer whistle-like call. This vocalization plays a crucial role in breeding and territorial marking. Males use their calls to establish dominance and attract mates, while females respond with their own unique calls.
The great eared nightjar is found in countries such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. Its habitat is often dense with vegetation, making it difficult for predators to locate the birds and their eggs.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/animals/birds/great-eared-nightjar-the-baby-dragon-bird-that-lays-its-eggs-on-the-floor