Why is it hard to work out exactly where a churring nightjar is sitting?

As a nightjar turns its head while churring, the song can seem to change in volume and direction. That makes it hard to find the exact perch by ear, even when the bird is close.

Nightjars also make percussive wing sounds as part of their display. These are separate from the long vocal churr. If you hear one sound, don't assume every sound nearby comes from the same bird or means the same thing. A good way to listen is to note whether a bird is churring, flying or feeding. Do this from an existing path on a warm evening, without trying to close in on it.

Sources

• Nightjars
• RSPB: All about nightjars

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