Nightjar wings reveal a trade-off between hunting slowly and traveling far
Researchers have found that nightjar wings are adapted for both long-distance migration and slow-speed insect hunting, with a trade-off between the two abilities. The European nightjar migrates between Europe and southern Africa each year, and its wings must also enable it to slow down, turn sharply, and fly at low speeds when hunting. A study from Lund University published in PLOS Biology reveals how this trade-off affects the bird's flight mechanics.
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- ✓ The European nightjar migrates between Europe and southern Africa each year.
- ✓ Nightjar wings are adapted for both long-distance migration and slow-speed insect hunting.
- ✓ The trade-off between hunting slowly and traveling far is reflected in the bird's flight mechanics.
What changed
The Lund University study provides new details on the flight mechanics of nightjars, shedding light on the trade-off between their migration and hunting abilities.
Live updates
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Nightjar wings reveal trade-off between slow hunting and long travel
Researchers have found that nightjar wings are adapted for both long-distance migration and slow-speed insect hunting, with a trade-off between the two abilities. The European nightjar migrates between Europe and southern Africa each year, and its wings must also enable it to slow down, turn sharply, and fly at low speeds when hunting. A study from Lund University published in PLOS Biology reveals how this trade-off affects the bird's flight mechanics.
Why it matters
This discovery provides insight into the complex flight capabilities of nocturnal migratory birds. Nightjars' unique wing structure allows them to make long journeys, but also to maneuver at low speeds when hunting insects. Understanding this trade-off can help researchers better appreciate the adaptability of bird flight.
What is confirmed
- The European nightjar migrates between Europe and southern Africa each year.
- Nightjar wings are adapted for both long-distance migration and slow-speed insect hunting.
- The trade-off between hunting slowly and traveling far is reflected in the bird's flight mechanics.
What to watch next
- Further research on the flight mechanics of other nocturnal migratory birds
- Studies on the impact of environmental changes on nightjar migration patterns
- Additional wind tunnel tests to confirm the findings of the Lund University study
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (9)
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- Phys.org — Nightjar wings reveal a trade-off between hunting slowly and traveling far
- Earth.com — Nightjars break the rules of flight with an unusual wing strategy
- Bioengineer.org — Nightjars Pay a Speed Penalty for Hovering, Wind Tunnel Study Reveals
- yourweather.co.uk | Meteored — The Nightjar’s wings hide a surprising secret about flight
- Bioengineer.org — Nightjar wings reveal a trade-off between hunting slowly and travelling far
- www.dailykos.com — Overnight News Digest: October 10, 2026 - Daily Kos
- Phys.org — Nightjar wings reveal a trade-off between hunting slowly and traveling far
- www.lunduniversity.lu.se — Nightjar wings reveal a trade-off between hunting slowly and travelling far | Lund University
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