Caprimulgus

bird

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

The term Caprimulgus refers to a genus of birds commonly known as nightjars or nighthawks. These are soft-plumaged, twilight- or night-flying birds that are sparrow- to raven-sized, measuring about 14 to 55 cm (5.5 to 22 inches) long. They are characterized by their enormous mouths, short legs, and long wings.1

The name "goatsucker" for these birds, derived from the genus name Caprimulgus, stems from an ancient misconception that they milked goats. In reality, they prey on insects. The more common name, nightjar, comes from their nocturnal habits and the distinctive sounds they make. These birds are found worldwide, with the exception of New Zealand and some oceanic islands.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

5 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

caprimulgiform
…name of the type genus Caprimulgus, goatsucker, derives from an ancient belief that the birds seen flitting about the goats at dusk were taking milk from the goats’ udders, a misconception no doubt fortified by the birds’ uncommonly large mouths. In actuality, caprimulgiforms prey on the insects disturbed or attracted…
Read More
…name of the type genus Caprimulgus, goatsucker, derives from an ancient belief that the birds seen flitting about the goats at dusk were taking milk from the goats’ udders, a misconception no doubt fortified by the birds’ uncommonly large mouths. In actuality, caprimulgiforms prey on the insects disturbed or attracted…
Read More