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Source: This post on Great Eared Nightjar has been created based on the article ” Is it a bird or a baby dragon? All about the mysterious creature” published in Times of India on 28th October 2024.
Why in news?
Nature lovers and bird enthusiasts alike have become fascinated by the Great Eared Nightjar (Lyncornis macrotis) due to its unique appearance and unusual behavior.
About Great Eared Nightjar
| Aspects | Description |
| About | 1. The Great Eared Nightjar is scientifically known as Lyncornis macrotis. 2. It is native to the dense forests of Southeast Asia, including regions like Thailand, India, and the Malay Peninsula. 3. It has unique, dragon-like appearance and nocturnal behavior. |
| Features | 1. The Great Eared Nightjar is often compared to mythical dragons due to its remarkable appearance, especially when perched. 2. It has large, forward-facing eyes set in a prominent head, giving it a striking look. 3. The intricate patterning of brown, black, and gray feathers allows it to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, providing excellent camouflage. 4. Its long, pointed wings are accentuated with tufted feathers around the head, which resemble “ears” and further contribute to its mythical, dragon-like impression. 5. Its feathers are structured to enable silent flight, allowing it to approach prey without detection and to escape potential threats with minimal noise. |
| Distribution | 1. This species is found in thick forests, woodlands, and mangroves across Southeast Asia, including parts of India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Indonesia. 2. The Great Eared Nightjar prefers to roost on the ground or low branches, which enhances its natural camouflage. |
| Diet | 1. The Great Eared Nightjar’s diet consists primarily of insects, including moths, beetles, and other nocturnal insects. 2. It can efficiently capture prey in mid-flight equipped with a large mouth. |
| Breeding | The Great Eared Nightjar lays its eggs directly on the ground instead of building a nest in trees. |
| Conservation Status and Threats | 1. The Great Eared Nightjar is currently classified as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). 2. Habitat loss due to deforestation and human activity poses a significant threat to its future, despite its current stable status. |
UPSC Syllabus: Species in news
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