Savanna Nightjar (Caprimulgus affinis) फ्रैंकलिन चपका, मेंढकी चिड़िया, चुड़ैल

Savanna Nightjar (Caprimulgus affinis) फ्रैंकलिन चपका, मेंढकी चिड़िया, चुड़ैल - Birds Around Me 0264

- December 24, 2025

The Savanna Nightjar, known in Hindi as फ्रैंकलिन चपका, is a fascinating nocturnal bird that thrives in open scrublands and dry habitats across India and Southeast Asia. Its cryptic plumage, silent flight, and unique calls make it one of the most intriguing members of the nightjar family.

Savanna Nightjar (Caprimulgus affinis) फ्रैंकलिन चपका, मेंढकी चिड़िया, चुड़ैल
Jabalpur, December 2025

This medium-sized bird measures about 22–23 cm in length, with mottled brown, grey, and buff plumage that blends seamlessly into the ground. A pale buff collar and barred underparts add subtle markings, but overall, its camouflage is so effective that it is almost invisible when roosting during the day. Large eyes and a wide gape are perfectly adapted for catching insects in flight at night.

Savanna Nightjar (Caprimulgus affinis) फ्रैंकलिन चपका, मेंढकी चिड़िया, चुड़ैल
Jabalpur, December 2025

The Savanna Nightjar is widely distributed across India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, China, and Southeast Asia. It prefers open scrub, dry grasslands, and semi-arid habitats, often roosting on bare ground or low vegetation. Its ability to remain motionless and blend into its surroundings makes it extremely difficult to spot.

Primarily nocturnal, the Savanna Nightjar emerges at dusk to feed on flying insects. It is distinguished from other South Asian nightjars by its distinctive vocalizations, which include repetitive, mechanical-sounding notes. During the day, it relies on camouflage, lying flat on the ground to avoid detection. Its flight is silent and graceful, allowing it to hunt efficiently under the cover of darkness.

The Hindi name फ्रैंकलिन चपका or चुड़ैल reflects older vernacular traditions, linking it to Franklin’s Nightjar, a name once used in English. Rural communities often recognize it by its unusual calls, which echo across scrublands at night.

The Savanna Nightjar is a master of camouflage and stealth. Though rarely seen, its presence is felt through its haunting calls and silent flight. For those lucky enough to spot one, it offers a glimpse into the secretive world of nocturnal birdlife in India.

Hindi Names of Savanna Nightjar (Caprimulgus affinis): फ्रैंकलिन चपका, मेंढकी चिड़िया, चुड़ैल

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Ashutosh Jhureley @BirdsAroundMe