Ladder-tailed Nightjar

The Ladder-tailed Nightjar occurs in eastern Ecuador, where it inhabits lowland tropical forests, riverbanks, and moist shrublands, typically below 600 meters elevation. Though rarely seen due to its cryptic plumage and nocturnal habits, it is locally fairly common near water, roosting on bare ground by day and hunting insects in silent flight at dusk. The species is globally listed as Least Concern, with a stable population across its broad Amazonian range. Males are known for their striking ladder-like tail feathers and aerial courtship displays, while nesting takes place directly on the ground, often on sand or leaf litter, with minimal nest structure.