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How large are caprimulgiform birds?
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Caprimulgiform
Male common nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus) landing
Caprimulgiform birds range in size from that of a sparrow to that of a raven, measuring approximately 14 to 55 cm (about 5.5 to 22 inches) in length.1
While their bodies are generally not stouter than those of most songbirds, they often appear chunky due to their fluffy plumage. Some species possess ornamental features that can significantly influence their total length; for example, the outermost tail feathers of the lyre-tailed nightjar can measure 60 cm (24 inches) or more, accounting for the vast majority of the bird's total length. Similarly, the pennant-winged nightjar features greatly lengthened primary flight feathers that can reach 50 to 70 cm (20 to 28 inches).23