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Caprimulgus europaeus, European nightjar
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Caprimulgus europaeus, European nightjar
Plate 1 from John Goulds The Birds of Great Britain, Vol. 2 (1873). Hand coloured lithograph
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Media ID 8613203
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10705803
Birds Of Great Britain Caprimulgidae Caprimulgiformes Caprimulgus Chick Fluffy Gould John Gould Caprimulgus Europaeus European Nightjar Goatsucker
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Plate 1 from John Gould's The Birds of Great Britain, Volume 2 (1873) showcases the European Nightjar, Caprimulgus europaeus, in stunning detail in this hand-coloured lithograph. The European Nightjar is a nocturnal bird belonging to the Caprimulgidae family, also known as goatsuckers due to an old European belief that they sucked the milk from goats. This misconception likely arose from observing the birds feeding on insects attracted to the animals. The European Nightjar is characterized by its distinctive fluffy, brown plumage, with a grey collar around its neck and a prominent brown cap. The bird's cryptic coloration helps it blend into its environment during the day, making it an excellent camouflage against the forest floor. The European Nightjar is a migratory bird, with populations breeding in Europe, Asia, and North Africa, and wintering in sub-Saharan Africa. They are typically found in wooded areas, open forests, and gardens, and are most active during the night when they hunt using their excellent hearing and large, forward-facing eyes to locate prey. This exquisite illustration by John Gould and his team captures the European Nightjar's unique features and beauty, providing a glimpse into the natural world of the 19th century. The intricate details and vibrant colors bring the bird to life, making it a valuable addition to any natural history collection or avian enthusiast's library.
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