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Rarities & Conservation: Record Number of Nightjars Recorded on UK RSPB Nature Reserves

19 June 2025
By James Hamilton
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European nightjar, adult roosting by Verity Hill (rspb-images.com)

The UK’s RSPB nature reserves have witnessed a remarkable milestone in 2024 with the highest ever recorded number of Nightjars spotted - an incredible total of 211 birds.

This achievement reflects decades of dedicated conservation efforts by reserve teams, volunteers, and supporters working tirelessly to restore and protect heathland habitats, crucial for this Amber-listed species.

Nightjars, known for their nocturnal habits and exceptional camouflage, have long been challenging to observe. Their mottled grey-brown plumage perfectly mimics tree bark, helping them blend into the ground where they nest. These unique birds feed in flight, catching insects with their mouths wide open, guided by keen eyesight. Each summer, they migrate from Central Africa to breed across the UK, arriving in late April and May before departing by late summer.

Historically, Nightjar populations declined due to loss and fragmentation of heathland, one of the UK’s most threatened habitats. Thanks to habitat restoration initiatives led by the RSPB and partners, the species has improved from the Birds of Conservation Concern Red List to the Amber List, reflecting moderate population recovery and ongoing conservation priority.

At RSPB Minsmere in Suffolk, the number of churring male Nightjars has risen to 24 - the highest since 1996. Efforts such as removing invasive trees and shrubs have helped expand open heathland areas vital for feeding and nesting. Site manager Nick Forster praised the large-scale restoration, saying, “Staff and volunteers have helped connect and enlarge fragmented patches of precious heathland to give wildlife, such as the distinctive Nightjar, the space to thrive.”

Counting Nightjars requires patience and expertise as the birds are best detected by their unique “churring” calls heard at dusk. Their in-flight call, resembling a slowing propeller engine, helps surveyors locate them despite their elusive nature.

Visitors to heathlands are reminded to respect sensitive habitats by staying on designated paths and keeping dogs on leads to avoid disturbing these ground-nesting birds.

Meanwhile, in Dorset, the RSPB’s Arne reserves have reported 93 Nightjars in recent surveys. Conservation work there includes removing invasive Scots Pine, managing gorse, and introducing grazing with cattle, ponies, and pigs to create a diverse habitat mosaic over 1,300 hectares.

The RSPB is also collaborating with the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) and Natural England on a UK-wide heathland bird survey in 2024 to update population data and assess conservation success. Volunteers are encouraged to get involved and contribute to this vital research. More information is available at BTO Heathland Birds Survey.

This encouraging news highlights how targeted conservation can make a real difference, offering hope for the future of Nightjars and the fragile heathland ecosystems they depend on.
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