The European nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus), is a crepuscular and nocturnal insect-eating bird that breeds across Europe and temperate Asia. All six subspecies of this nightjar are migratory, wintering in sub-Saharan Africa. Their densely patterned grey and brown plumage makes them difficult to see in the daytime when they rest on the ground or perch motionless along a branch, although the male shows white patches in the wings and tail in flight. The preferred habitat is dry, open country with some trees and small bushes. The breeding male has a churring trill, and patrols his territory with wings held in a V-shape. The female lays two eggs directly on the ground; they hatch after about 17–21 days and the chicks fledge in another 16–17 days. Both "Caprimulgus" and the old name "goatsucker" refer to the myth that nightjars suckled she-goats, causing them to cease to give milk. Its large numbers and huge breeding range mean that it is classed by the IUCN as being of least concern.
Read more: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_nightjar
_______________________________ Today's selected anniversaries:
1789:
George Washington took the oath of office as the first president of the United States at Federal Hall in New York City. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presidency_of_George_Washington
1945:
World War II: As Allied forces closed in on Berlin, Nazi leader Adolf Hitler committed suicide in the Führerbunker with Eva Braun one day after their marriage. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Adolf_Hitler
1982:
Sixteen monks and a nun of the Hindu organisation Ananda Marga were beaten to death and set on fire in Calcutta, India. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bijon_Setu_massacre
1997:
In "The Puppy Episode", the lead character of the TV series Ellen, played by Ellen DeGeneres, came out as lesbian. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Puppy_Episode
_____________________________ Wiktionary's word of the day:
desiccate: 1. (transitive) To remove moisture from; to dry. 2. (transitive) To preserve by drying. 3. (intransitive, rare) To become dry; to dry up. https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/desiccate
___________________________ Wikiquote quote of the day:
Now we are at ground zero as regards the world we need to build. A world of respect for international law, the UN Charter, and the power of multilateralism. A world where civilians have protection. Where human rights are a priority. Where leaders live up to the declared values they have committed to. It is also a struggle, but we must win it for the sake of every country, community and person around the world. --António Guterres https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Ant%C3%B3nio_Guterres