European Nightjar

European nightjars are cryptically patterned nocturnal birds that breed across much of Europe and temperate Asia before migrating to Africa. Their mottled gray, brown and black plumage resembles bark and leaf litter, making resting birds difficult to detect. They occupy heathland, scrub, forest edges and open woodland where unobstructed airspace permits aerial hunting. Long wings and a broad mouth help them capture flying insects after dusk. (Animal Diversity Web)

Rather than constructing a conventional nest, a female lays her eggs directly on bare ground or leaf litter. Their camouflage provides the principal defense while they incubate and brood. Both members of a pair contribute to reproduction, although their roles vary through the nesting cycle. Nightjars feed mainly on moths, beetles and other flying insects, which they pursue in sustained, agile flight during twilight and nighttime activity periods. (Animal Diversity Web)