Owlet nightjar or Banded goatsucker (Aegotheles cristatus), c. 1790s

Mitchell Library, State Library of NSW; Purchased 1887; PXD 226, f. 79

Watercolour

The Owlet nightjar has two different plumage colourations, russet-brown (rufous), and the more common grey.

The Owlet nightjar is one of the most common and widespread of Australia's nocturnal birds. It occurs throughout Australia and southern Papua New Guinea.

Owlet nightjars or New Holland goatsuckers inhabit almost any tree-studded area where there are suitable hollows.

Owlet nightjars form permanent bonds, and pairs occupy the same territory throughout the year.

The Australian Owlet nightjar is the smallest of the nocturnal birds (night birds) found in Australia.

The Owlet nightjar or Banded goatsucker has large brown eyes which are non-reflective when exposed to a torch or spotlight (other nocturnal bird eyes give a red reflection).