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Nightjars: Caprimulgiformes

Geographic Range



Nightjars, the largest family in the order Caprimulgiformes, are located throughout much of the world. There are twenty-five Caprimulgidae species in Africa, and nightjar species live in countries in North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. These birds are not found in the Arctic and Antarctic.



Oilbirds are found in Central and South America. They live in countries including Panama and Bolivia. Birds also range in Trinidad and Tobago.

Frogmouth species live in Asian countries including India, Vietnam, Java, and the Philippines. They also range in Australia and South Pacific countries including Tasmania, New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands.

Owlet-nightjars range in the South Pacific on Australia, Tasmania, New Caledonia, northern Moluccas, the Solomon Islands, and New Guinea.

Potoos live in Central and South America, and are found in countries from Mexico to Uruguay. They also range in Hispaniola and Jamaica.


Additional topics

Animal Life ResourceBirdsNightjars: Caprimulgiformes - Physical Characteristics, Geographic Range, Habitat, Behavior And Reproduction, Caprimulgiformes And People, Conservation Status - DIET